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There are about 3 songs on this album that I like, including her current hit "Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)", and 4 others that are listenable (or should I say, tolerable). To this end, I don't understand the need for two CDs. Just put these 7 songs on one and "call it a day" - which is precisely what Beyonce needs to do after these first two singles boil over. “Diva” could go on to be another big hit for her, but the album as a whole is drearily soulless. I felt like I was trapped in an elevator in the 70's.
I, for one see no harm in an artist expanding their base and trying new genres. Seems like the “in” thing to do now - R&B artists trying the pop thing (Chris Brown, Brandy, Usher to name a few), but Beyonce got carried away with this album, and not for the better. “I Am… Sasha Fierce” is a total 180 degrees turn from her last album, "B Day". Even her diehard fans will most likely feel cheated, and aside from "If I Were A Boy", I don't see much hope for pulling in (and keeping) new fans. It’s interesting that she would call her most boring album “Fierce”.
Word of advice: download the singles you like, don't purchase this hodgepodge of blandness.