Artist: Ashanti
Title: The Declaration
Label: Universal Music Canada
Released: June 03, 2008 

Reviewed by: Jennifer Chang (Vancouver Correspondent - Canada) 

The Declaration is Ashanti's fourth studio album. It is no secret that Iry Gotti largely guided Ashanti's prior works. In fact, her early success was fueled by her collaboration with members of The Inc, especially Ja Rule. In this album, Ashanti tries to ‘declare' her newfound creative control - replacing Iry Gotti with a host of industry heavyweights: Rodney "Darkchild" Jerkins, Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds, Jermaine Dupri and L.T. Huttoon.

The single, ‘The Way I That I Love You', which is a stark change, both lyrically and sonically - from her previous lead singles like ‘Foolish' or ‘ Rock Witchu'. It is not as fun as her previous singles. This time around she is proclaiming her independence and growth as a stronger woman. I think this is why she has hopped on the popular train to sing about cheating boyfriends and girlfriends forever. The Declaration has its fair share of tracks that won't leave you wanting a refund, but Ashanti is still lacking character in her vocals. At times, she sounds flat and empty, losing her diva persona.

Track Listing:

1. Intro
2. The Way That I Love You
3. You're Gonna Miss
4. So Over You
5. Struggle
6. Girlfriend
7. Things That You Make Me Do
8. In These Streets
9. Good Good
10. Body On Me
11. Mother
12. Shine
13. The Declaration/ Outro