Think Like a Girl

by Jose F. PromisDiana King's sophomore outing Think Like a Girl is a well-crafted, diverse set of soul/pop/reggae that merited much more attention it received. The album contains several ultra catchy songs that have hit written all over them, namely the infectious title track and "Wicked." King is also an extremely earnest and sincere singer, and nowhere is that more evident than on the album's 30-second a cappella interlude "Mi Coffee." On some tunes, such as "Love Yourself" and the single "L-L-Lies," King sings in her trademark, powerful reggae style. On others, such as her sexy and breathy remake of Culture Club's classic "Do You Really Want to Hurt Me" and "Find My Way Back," King's performance is more traditional and subdued, yet just as effective. The album did spawn one Top 40 hit with her excellent, driving remake of "I Say a Little Prayer," which also became one of the year's biggest dance hits. Think Like a Girl does tend to wane towards the end, but, overall, this is a surprisingly well-crafted and engaging set, and only hints at what is to come for the talented and extremely photogenic Diana King.