At one point until last week, Amazon had over 350 reviews listed with a 4 star average. What happened? The album is great. Original, edgy, different from the vanilla junk that's out there today. The only thing that stopped sales on this album from being outstanding was the inexplicable refusal by the label to help promote the album.

Kelly Clarkson has established herself as one of the great all-time singers of her generation, and released smashing hit after hit with her first two albums. My December has a few worthy tracks on it, but those bright moments aren't enough to hold the album to it's high standard of previous one by Miss Clarkson.

With Breakaway doing so well within the United States and around the world, many Kelly fans were expecting bigger and better things out of her third album. Instead many fans were left wondering what had happended to their "Since You Been Gone" power tracks. I personally felt that the album was nothing more than a medium strength "sophmore" album. With the fighting against her record label and wanting to put out more meaningful and personal tracks, Kelly lost many fans and the album just didn't hit the standard she had previously set.

The only really note-worthy songs on the album are "Never Again" and "Sober".

"Never Again" was the first and only real chart contender from "My December". It has that same rock undertone that "Since You Been Gone" had, and really got you hooked from the first few lines. The song eventually lost steam, but is still a fun track to play every once in a while.

The more relatable track for every person who has a beating heart is "Sober". The song is very lyric driven and speaks from the heart. Personal struggles are shared and solutions are found, and the song is really one of the only songs out today with any sort of substance to it. If you haven't heard it, listen now! You won't be sorry, and if you really listen to the message behind the words, you might find that Kelly was touching on something deep and complex instead of some simple dance beat about partying all the time.

I've read some of the reviews for this album, and it seemed to be pretty mixed. I think this album is great. WAY better than Miss Independent, maybe not quite as good as Breakaway, but it'll be hard to top that one. There are a lot of stand-out songs Never Again, Sober, Maybe, Judas, just to name a few. Id recommend it to anyone who is not afraid to venture out away from the "popular" songs that play on the radio right now. :)

Not at all. This album wasn't made for radio, it wasn't made to be loved instantly and that's the beauty of it.

Impatiant, ignorant idiots won't like this album as they probably don't have the brain capacity to break it down and see it's wonder. Breakaway was an Alcopop...My December is a fine wine. It gets better with every listen as it's more layered. Everything is still there from Breakaway but with more listens you'll notice more progression. One thing that stood out to me on this album was the backing vocals (Done mainly by Kelly herself) which really give the songs other dimensons.

1. Never Again - The lead single. Bitter, angry pop/rock song with a real bite. She makes Avril lavigne look like about as fierce as Paris Hiltons dog with this. Once again delivering big in the middle 8 8/10
2. One Minute - Probably the most radio-friendly of the bunch. It has a driving bassline with matching vocals. 7/10
3. Hole - Dark. That's the best way to describe it! "There's a hole inside of me, it's so cold, slowly killing me." get the gist yet? 7/10
4. Sober - Where do I start? I was captured by the first few seconds of echoey acoustic guitar. Lyrically outstanding, musically enchanting, this is Kelly at her absolute best. She shows off her vocals in the latter part of the song in a way only she can by switching from emotionally charged, breathey vocals to urgent powerful vocals set to a epic orchestral background. My favorite song she's ever done. 10/10
5. Don't Waste Your Time - Mid paced, light. Wasn't sure about it being a single to be honest, maybe it's just the fact that nothing can follow up Sober. 7/10
6. Judas - Like the title suggests, an angry song. Driving vocals in the chorus fit well with the keyboards in the background. 7/10
7. Haunted - Yes, it's "haunting" draws comparisons to "Addicted" from Breakaway. I prefer My Decembers offering much more depth to this one. 9/10
8. Be Still - Kelly described this as "Her mom's favorite" and this doesn't supprise me as it's very laid back. Nothing fancy here almost folk-like but with perfect vocals. Possibly wouldn't have been out of place on "Thankful". 8/10
9. Maybe - Kelly at her best again. Maybe starts very simple, with an extremely catchy acoutic guitar riff and slowly builds up as the song grows with the intensity of both the lyrics and vocals. By 2:00 song has taken on a completley different shape, percussion, electric guitar, strings and that urgent voice kelly's known so well for. There's a lovley breakdown in the middle 8 with a piano and the lyrics "I don't need to be fixed and I certainly don't need to be found". Then it kicks back in. 10/10
10. How I Feel - Upbeat, sassy, this albums "Walk Away" if you will but once again with more depth especially in the lyrics. 8/10
11. Yeah - When I first heard this I thought of Gwen Stefani for some reason. There's a sexy dirty guitar riff setting the tone here. She cuts her voice loose on this one. Kelly's lyrics are usually reserved for Heartache/anger but on this occasion it's a lot more light hearted. 7/10
12. Can I Have A Kiss? - 2 songs cut into one. The verses and chorus are from 2 different songs which is wierd because they fit together so well. It's light-hearted in the chorus and deeper in the verses. As always delivering with the vocals. 8/10
13. Irvine - Haunting, but in a completley different way to "Haunted". Acoustic "prayer" written by Kelly on the bathroom floor after a show in 2003 out of desperation. A really sad song lyrically, very moving. 9/10
14. (Hidden track) Chivas - Regarded as one of the best tracks on the album hard to believe it's the hidden track. Acoustic, grainy, sassy track written on a bar napkin by Clarkson. "I'll take the Chivas instead of your bed" it's the kind of song you'd reccomend to help a friend get over an ex. Kelly has so much fun with this track as you can hear from the laughter at the end. 10/10

In conclusion, don't expect to love this album after one listen, chances are you won't if you were a fan of Breakaway. Be paitent, appreciate it and you'll be rewarded.

It's just another chapter in Kelly's growth as an artist and I can't wait to hear the next.

I would reccomend this album to people who appreciate real music.

I have never seen American Idol, but I enjoyed Kelly's first few songs on the radio. Her second album was excellent. This one was horrible and I have returned it.

Honestly i only bought this item because it had the songs Never Again, and Haunted but when it arrived i listened to the full CD and is been about a week and i like alot of songs from it specially Judas thats my favorite song from that CD i really like this CD and im glad i bought it.

I was one of those people that stayed away from Kelly Clarkson because she *just* an American Idol. Kelly, I apologize. This cd kicks major @$$. Great lyrics - extremely personal but I think that's why so many people can relate, tight sound, edgy, everything I was looking for when I bought this cd.

I thought it was really great that Kelly fought for her rights and co-wrote all the songs on this album. The result is a little mixed, and I suspect it's because Kelly still isn't very established at the whole writing thing. This is why the album has only some listenable songs. Tracks 1 - 6 are really good. Then, the album starts to drag until we get into "How I Feel" and it becomes a little better from there, though the last track "Irvine", is rather forgettable.

But all in all, this is a good album and I'm sure there'll be more from where this came from

Too much, Too fast!

This one lacks the vibrancy and emotion her priors exhibited. Rushed?
NOT impressed at all.

for phenomenal song writing to complement her steel vocals. Sure, it not the most commercial or radio-friendly offering. That does not necessarily mean that its not great music. Think about the great music that isn't aired on mainstream radio or music video outlets. To anyone with a musical ear and penchant for introspective and smart lyrics that make you think and feel..give this CD a listen. Albeit not "pop" as her multi-platinum sophomore CD, but it will be even more addictive after the 3rd/4th listen. As my favorite CD of 2007, I hope that "My Decemeber" is a glimpse of Ms Clarkson's future body of work. Great vision and execution, Kelly. Thanks.

This CD is good. By now, everyone knows about the crazy media ruckus that surrounded the release of My December. Being a huge fan of Breakaway (Since U Been Gone is in my top 3 favorite songs of all time), I can't deny that I was more than a little worried. However, Kelly didn't disappoint and My December just as strong song for song as Breakaway, despite the massive hits. I definitely recommend buying the entire album, but for those who are just looking for specific tracks to download on iTunes, here's a quick rundown.

The Standouts:
One Minute: A frothy concoction of electro-pop that makes me want to jump when I hear it. If you like a New Wave-ish techno beat, this track is for you.

Hole: One of my early favorites from the album. It's much more edgy than anything Kelly's done before, with a fiercely catchy guitar loop and addictive chorus.

Sober: Probably the best song Kelly's ever recorded and my hands down favorite from My December. Amazon's clip doesn't do it justice. The song is a slow, hypnotic build to an absolutely arresting vocal performance by Kelly at the end. If you buy only one track, this is definitely the one.

Maybe: I have loved this song ever since I heard Kelly sing it on tour. It's another slow burning track that builds steadily over crunchy guitars as the song progresses. The key here is the lyrics, which are amazing and utterly personal.

How I Feel: No Doubt meets Cyndi Lauper, with vocals by Kelly. Seriously, this song is unbelievably catchy, both lyrically and musically. It had the potential to be a huge hit, so it's a shame it wasn't released.

Irvine/Chivas: An absolute masterpiece. Irvine is about as personal and raw as it gets, to the point where it's sometimes tough to listen to. It's beautifully crafted though and comes with a huge payoff: Chivas. Chivas is the hidden track which starts about a minute after Irvine ends. It's a hilarious kiss-off to a bad lover that's infinitely singable. I would have bought the CD for this song alone.

Honorable Mention:
Dirty Little Secret: This isn't on the CD; it's only available as a bonus track on iTunes. However, it's completely awesome and one of my favorite Kelly songs of all time. Kelly sounds--dare I say it--lusty when singing, with a seductive purr on the verses and an all out wail on the chorus. This song really does rival SUBG in its infectiousness.

Overall, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend any fans of Kelly's previous work or just casual music lovers in general. It may lack some of Breakaway's polish, but it's an important step in the evolution of Kelly as an artist and one of the best albums of 2007.

This cd is great. she wrote most of it and spent alot of time on it! It is always in my cd player because I can relate to all of the songs on it. Please let her next cd prove that she is the only American Idol to deal with!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

To be honest, I didn't like Kelly Clarkson at all prior to this CD. The first time I heard "Never Again" sold me as a fan. When the CD came out, I was never happier I bought it. Every song is good and "Sober" is probably one of my favorite songs in the world. I heard little to nothing on the radio from this album which is disappointing considering how good it is. Definately a refreshing change from the same R&B crap that plays over and over again. I now am going to have to buy another copy of the CD because the one I have is scratched and worn from listening to it too much. Buy the CD!!!

I wanted to like this CD, really I did. After BREAKAWAY, where Kelly gave in to RCA & produced a carbon-copy Avril/Ashlee/Christina type girl-pop standard teen-radio CD, I was really looking forward to seeing her get the chance to put her own artistic stamp on something. She made her label a lot of money (as have several of the Idol alum) & deserved the chance to do her own thing. But I grudgingly must admit that in this instance, that moldy old coot Clive Davis was right. BREAKAWAY was a masterpiece compared to this unmitigated mess. I've listened & listened for a catchy hook, deep original thought, or just the Kelly voice I loved on Idol, & all I hear is track after track with no discernable melody, cliche-riddled lyrics, & lots of screeching. Most of the songs are like the ramblings you'd find in a teenage diary. Her life is over because of one month-long bad relationship??? I'd hate to hear what she comes up with when someone really hurts her down the line. But at least she's trying & expanding her horizons, right? The softer tracks SOBER & IRVINE show a glimpse of what Kelly could become. But now we hear that she's back to toeing the line, kissing Clive's [...] & recording BREAKAWAY Part 2. How sad. It will probably be lucrative for all if the kids haven't turned away from her, but it's disheartening to face the fact that money conquers all & that RCA probably won't let her grow into her full potential for a long time to come after this financial & artistic disappointment.

You know, as I sit here reading the reviews that are given for this album, I am really in shock. This album needs to be given more recognition by people who know how to spell. All of Kelly's albums were great, and yes, Breakaway was the one that made her famous, winning her two grammys. I for one LOVE my December. If you really wanted to get to know Kelly, just listen to this album. As you all may know, she wrote/co-wrote every song on this album, all from personal experiences. I swear, when I listen to Irvine, I feel as if I shouldn't be because it's so insanely personal to her. If you don't know the story behind that song, you should read up on it, because it will give you a new insight on Kelly and her personality as a whole. And then Chivas comes on, and I love that she ends the album on a light note. Some people think this album is depressing, and maybe it is. But, it's also inspiring, because she's saying: "Okay, this is what happened to me, now I can move on to the next bump in the road." It all depends on how you look at it. This girl may have come from American Idol (which I still don't see why that is such a big deal, that's where Kelly got to show off her versatility factor and gained a permanent fan base), but she still is one of the sweetest, nicest stars of our time. With one rockin' voice! Trust me, this girl can sing Happy Birthday, and it will go #1.

and downloaded the track, Fading which I will review at the very end.

NEVER AGAIN . . . A great mid-tempo that's angrier than ANY of Kelly's previously released songs. Her first single. 8/10

ONE MINUTE . . . A great up and down track about a lover who is so f'd up emotionally. "One minute you laugh," Kelly confesses. "...then next minute you're slowly, sinking, into, something black!" A bit better than NEVER AGAIN. 8.5/10

HOLE . . . Previously my favorite track by her ever! Now that SOBER owns that title, I must say that this great mid-tempo is still THE hardest track (rock-wise) that she's ever managed. Powerful vocal, emotionally delivered. :) 10/10

SOBER . . . Very inspiring yet kind of sad all in one. It's dramatic ending builds and then soars. One of her most powerfully-written tracks. Love ya, Kells. ^_^ 11/10

DON'T WASTE YOUR TIME . . . Didn't care for it much until it became a single (her official 3rd single, second video). After that, and not cause of the video, I was listening to it a bit more and gave it an actual chance and like it now. Some friends just never "hear" you. 8.25/10

JUDAS . . . Another track I didn't originally like much. I did care for the lyrics but Kelly just seemed to scream and scream. I get it now. :) 8/10

HAUNTED . . . Everyone likes to compare this with Breakaway's Addicted. I still see next to no connection and previously, like the two other tracks mentioned beforehand, didn't like this one much either. Couldn't relate too much and it just wasn't my cup of tea so I would more or less skip them all in a row! Now, Haunted is in the top 3 best vocally-delivered tracks and has great emotions, demonstrated vocally. 9/10

BE STILL . . . Great ballad that I loved from the get go. Still one of the better tracks on MD and will remain to be. Super-relate-able and a slow jam. 10/10

MAYBE . . . Great lyrics and yet again, very real. Another mid-tempo which seems to plague her CD (not in a bad way, mind you). Very honest here and lovely. Third best mid-tempo here (HOLE and SOBER are superior). 10/10

HOW I FEEL . . . Nice quick guitar riffs. Funny but sad. It's about being single, trying to find someone, but falling flat because every guy you run into is tied to another. Yet again. "Babies; everywhere I look. Trophy wives; with their little black books." An obvious favorite. 9/10

YEAH . . . Kinda funky. It's different and Kelly makes it her own. Also, previously my favorite track (every song seems to switch up once in a while) but has been taken by HOLE and SOBER. 9/10

CAN I HAVE A KISS . . . Even though it's not a single this gets played where I work, which I'm guessing is on some satellite radio. Could be mistaken. Either way, it's another mid-tempo (surprised?) that shines, showing Kelly's desperation for affection. "I tried to warn you, been a mess since you've known me, I can't promise forever, but I'm working on it; If I can't hold you, can I have a kiss?" 9/10

IRVINE . . . To say that this ballad is not only heartbreaking but heart-wrenching would be an understatement. Everyone seems to cling to this song and it's for great reason. It's so sad, and shows how low Kelly was on tour in Irvine. "I don't have long, before I fade completely." she slowly croons. It's sweetly-delivered but has brought out many tears I'm sure. Novelty runs a bit thin after you hear it 30x though. 10/10

CHIVAS . . . It's actually a part of IRVINE, 1-2 minutes after it goes off unless you own the Japanese version of MD or another that may have it split. The Japanese version is the only one I know of that has them split. But CHIVAS is kinda funny. It's a kiss off too. Not the best that I've heard but still good. "It wasn't even good, trust me. I must've been so so so so...lonely." She admits. It took me forever to hear this because I didn't own the album until a few days after the album came out and I bought it. Still not disappointed in that decision. No doubt that Kelly's CDs will continue to be a part of my collection. 8.25/10

FADING . . . Should've made it to the U.S. release. JUDAS is decent but it basically repeats what DON'T WASTE YOUR TIME already catchily delivers. So in a sense, JUDAS could've been left off, and FADING, added right before HAUNTED cause it would have fit greatly! But now that I have heard this, I love it. If she's talking about herself then this song gets more points from me! "Amongst these faceless others, underneath the surface, everything's so backwards, it's all a lie". 9.25 + .5 = 9.75/10

All in all some of it really had to grow on me. I heard NEVER AGAIN when I saw the video. It seemed slightly darker and much more angry than the light stuff on Breakaway was. But it didn't necessarily catch my attention then. I downloaded the songs (minus CHIVAS) online and I found that I loved some of the other tracks and that's when NEVER AGAIN started to shine.

137.75 ÷ 15 = 9.183333333333

9.18 = 4.59

4.59 stars.

If you're angry or sad AND that type of music helps you heal then let it grow on you. Most of it should. Some think it was rushed or just shouldn't have been released at all! I agree that everyone is entitled to an opinion, but their opinion IN MY OPINION is wrong, and sorely mistaken at best!

Rock on, Kelly. Nice to see her get a bit harder musically. One of the best pop stars of the new ages.

EDIT: I'm now next to positive that FADING is of her friend who so sadly killed herself...4/7/08: Kelly admits on a youtube video that Irvine was written about how she felt while touring in Irvine. She also says that she only delves so deep, and the rest is a secret. Probably too painful.

Kelly Clarkson's sophomore effort Breakaway was a pop breakthrough, ruling the sales charts and airwaves of the world for nearly two years with it's hit parade of infectious singles. Yet, that's the best that can be said for the disc - it was so full of hit singles that it fell flat as an album, sounding instead like a prefabricated Best of Kelly Clarkson mixtape.

My December couldn't be more different. It's a strong, moody album full of honest tunes with sharp edges. In other words, it is not packed with obvious singles.

What's more, from start to finish it is unequivocally a rock record, even when it offers A/C-friendly fare. Huge rock records fronted by women have been few and far between in recent years - Evanescence and The Yeah Yeah Yeahs are the only two acts that fit the bill. And, it's been even longer since a notable solo effort by a woman in rock caught fire with fans and critics. PJ Harvey? Sheryl Crow? Alanis Morissette?

Pat Benatar?

You can hear a little of all of those acts on December, especially in its incendiary guitar tone and whiskey-tinged, less-girlish vocals. The zenith, and Clarkson's definitive application for membership into the sisterhood of chick rock, is definitely "Hole." For a few seconds it actually quotes a YYY's guitar tone ("Y Control"?) before dissolving into a loose, circular riff that would have been raucous enough even without it's seesawing, sometimes-discordant keyboards.

By the time Kelly rips into the chorus, wailing "There's a hole inside of me!" you would be forgiven if you forgot that the song found its way to your ears via the results of American Idol. Breakaway had its share of crescendos, and of wailing, but not once did it sound this tangibly dangerous, this rock'n'roll.

It's "Hole" and other edgier tracks of My December that are putting a scare in record execs and radio programmers alike, but the fear is misplaced. Maybe intentionally? The guitars are loud, but not loud enough to obscure solid all-ages entries like "Can I Have A Kiss." The titular sentiment is disarmingly reductive - especially after vicious kiss off of "Never Again" or, for that matter, of hits like "Behind These Hazel Eyes" or "Walk Away." "Don't move," Kelly vainly pleads, "I need to remember you just like this."

Similarly, "Don't Waste Your Time" could have turned out fiercer but keeps its rage under wraps, both vocally and in a restrained pop-punk guitar arrangement. Even the chorus files down its edge, admonishing "don't waste your time on me" before emphasizing "my friend."

If that understated sweetness seems too dissonant in comparison to the jilted, rebellious Kelly Clarkson on display elsewhere on the disc, consider that the widely-reported original inspiration for the disc was the unlikely Patty Griffin. Most people credit Patty as a top-notch songwriter and the country/folk troubadour behind the acoustic Living With Ghosts or the delicate 1,000 Kisses, to which Kelly's ballads "Sober" and the superb "Irvine" owe debt of inspiration. However, the standout in her catalog is the amped up, mostly-electric Flaming Red, which lent a heavy edge to her simple, devastating compositions.

My December doesn't share Red's songwriting chops, but Kelly is directly channeling its sentiment and production, which emphasized a blend of sweet and sour. "Maybe" starts with a pinging, countryish acoustic riff and slowly accumulates some background vibes before finally letting its rhythm section and dramatic strings kick in halfway through, just as the vocals get a little desperate. It's not the best song on the disc, but it might be the most fully realized.

As a solo rocker writing with a band Kelly is slightly more prone to missteps than on a disc helmed by a dozen varied co-writers to whom songwriting was a science. Some arrangements feature unnecessary extra riffing when a simpler formula would connect more strongly, as on the choruses of "Never Again," as well as the entirety of the too-frantic "One Minute." And, sometimes while chasing a specific sound Kelly disappears into it, as on Evanescence-esque "Haunted" (retreading the "Addicted"/"Hear Me" duo from her last disc).

However, Clarkson's co-written lyrics trump the clichés handed to her by pro songwriting teams over the course of her past two discs, even on the disc's weaker tracks, such as anony-rocker "Judas." The verses of the slight "How I Feel" hint at Kelly breaking out into Rent's "Out Tonight," but remains enticing for the increasing raspyness she slips into her delivery, and the simple two-part harmony on the bridge - a relief from the relentless stacked and heavily-processed vocal chords on the hits of Breakaway

The real misstep here are the two songs that were discarded. Tinnily recorded secret track "Shivers" (or, per Kelly's pronunciation, "Chivas") is a simple acoustic regret that hearkens to Fiona Apple's playful blend of sass and smarts. "So much for true love," she laments, "I'll take the shivers instead" (adding later, "instead of your bed"). It's a terrific song that easily holds its own against "Sober" and "Be Still" - why waste it?

Even worse, "Dirty Little Secret" rivals "Hole" for rock and approaches "SUBG" levels of life-altering catchiness by the time it reaches its slinky, syncopated ... actually, sort of arousing bridge, but it was left off of the disc as an iTunes-only bonus track. Kelly, Kelly, Kelly - what's up with that, dawg?

The reality is that Kelly will never stop being the winner of American Idol, which is maybe a promise that no solo disc will go without a hint of the quintessential, occasionally campy songs that won her that contest. Here they're represented by the secular gospel/funk/rock of "Yeah" (almost descending into INXS's "Need You Tonight" during its bridge) and the simple chords and R&B tinged beat on "Be Still."

The most idolized of all Idols or not, Kelly Clarkson's My December isn't Breakaway, and with it she has become something more than a pop singer. Whether management, media, and fans are ready for that transformation remains to be seen, but it's no longer just inevitable - it's here.

Kelly Clarkson really came into her own as a songwriter on this album. She wrote/co wrote more songs on this album than her others. If you are expecting any light, fluffy songs...this is NOT you cd. It have more of an edge to it. It pushes more towards rock than the previous. The only song that I thought was ok but could've been better was Yeah...I felt that any 1st grader could have wrote it lyric wise. My favorites are..Chivas, Irvine, Be Still, Haunted, and Sober. Sober is a breath of fresh air. Her voice hits it perfectly. Sad that it haven't been a radio fixture.

I'm very disapointed by this cd. I first heard Kelly on the dvd of The princess diaries 2 and bought her album Breakaway soon after. Now that is an amazing album. So I thought I should give this one a try and wow, I was surprised at how bad it was. Overall I only like 2 songs on this cd. I think the main thought I had while listening to it was: It's not because you can sing loud that you need to do it constantly.

I've been a Kelly fan since her Idol days. "Thankful" and "Breakaway" or two of my all time favorite albums, and I thought without a doubt that "My December" would be as well. I bought it the day it was realeased, and I'm sad to say I was disappointed. The only really good songs on the album are Never Again, Don't Waste Your Time and Judas. All the others sound the same, are slow songs, and are just plain BORING. Kelly has an amazing voice, and she's a good song writer, but this album never should have been. Every artist has an album that is a fan-least-favorite, and I think this is Kelly's.

I will continue to be a fan and hope the next one is better.

"Thankful" was an okay release, but it was the first release of any kind by an Idol. "Breakaway" was a wonderful CD. This CD is just plain awful. Kelly's advisers were right, that this CD should not have been made. Me and my three daughters listened to this CD; it was unanimous that it is really really bad. It is so bad that if I did not have the complete Kelly collection, I probably would not by another Kelly release. This release is what is called a "career killer". I would not recommend this release to anyone.

There's been a trend of record companies not wanting to release an artists' material because it might not be successful recently, and Kelly Clarkson is just another mark on the board. Once again, here's proof that record execs should just let an artist live and learn.

My December, Kelly Clarkson's newest offering, isn't as bad as some would lead you to believe, but it's also not as grand as others say. It's one of those CDs that has some great songs and some that you can pass over. Maybe with a bit more time she could've fixed a few songs to be more enjoyable, but this is still clearly KC, so I'm satisfied.

This CD isn't perfect. Anyone who tells you that is most likely a jaded fan or someone who refuses to reason. Point number one...Hole. It's not a good song. It has no rhythm, the lyrics aren't great, it feels like a mess. However, My December does have Kelly's best song to date, Sober. Mainstream pop doesn't get a lot of unflinchingly honest songs (Christina Aguilera's Stripped-era songs are probably the most prominent examples), so to see an artist with as powerful a voice as Kelly's, who always uses it tastefully--yes, that's directed at Mrs. Aguilera--do a track like Sober is long overdue. One Minute is instantly likeable with a certain dance quality that many will love. Haunted finds Kelly the way I like her best, supported by a rock band.

My favorite songs are One Minute, Sober, Haunted, Be Still, and Yeah. All in all, My December proves to be a worthy purchase. The good tracks outweigh the bad and anytime I can support an artist who deserves the attention they get, I gladly will. With vocals like Kelly Clarkson's, it's gonna be downright impossible to make a horrible CD, and My December only further proves the reason why Kelly is in a league of her own.

This CD is a wonderful break from her mass commercialism. I still feel she has one of the most powerful voices that have come from the American Idol competition. She was definitely the type of person that competition was designed for. Since winning, we have seen her really bloom under the tutelage of those around her. While she is not receiving much commercial critical success with this album, i believe it truly shows where she's coming from and that she has something to say. She's a strong woman with strong views and us other strong women want to hear what she has to say. This album reminds me of rock the way it was made back in the late 70s and early 80s.

When Thankful came out I ran to the stores to pick up a copy. Was extremely impressed of her on AI so when her debut album came out I had to get it. I wasn't impressed with that album. To cookie cutter and didn't shine her talent like I expected it to do. Than Breakaway came out. That's the Kelly I love. Edgy, power voice. When My December came out I was reluctant to buy it, but read reviews on here and deceided to. With all the hype of her writting her own songs and leaving her record label I wasn't sure what to expect. My December is Edgy and that power voice shines through. I actually like the idea of her writting her own music. To me that is true talent. Why do people critize her for the production of this album? Brittany Spears (who does not sing well or have really any talent- only attractive and thats why she's where she is at- in my opinion) does it and everyone rants and raves how great she is. Yes Kelly has a great voice and she should use it. But I would rather her make an album a little different from Breakaway. Who wants to buy a CD that sounds like her last one? If your a Kelly fan buy it. If you like pop/rock buy it.

Some people think that she has lost her touch on this CD but I really don't hear that. I still think that she is pretty awesome. I will continue to buy her music. She changes up her style and experiments with different sounds. I think that all artists should do that. Not just do what is always popular. Kelly is great. This CD is great. Just like her other CD's. Worth the money at full price.

My December was a bit of a disappointment to me. There were two tracks that I liked, and the others were over produced. This seems to happen...the innocence, and raw talent is replaced by what is perceived the public desires.

In a year plagued with re-releases, delays, and the scrapping of albums altogether, it is very lucky that we got to hear Kelly Clarkson's My December at all. It was reported that label head Clive Davis was not satisfied with the album, some even claiming that he wanted Kelly to start from scratch. Kelly herself later confirmed these rumours, stating that the label felt the album was too negative. It is certainly true that My December lacks the commercial appeal of Kelly's previous works, but it is precisely because it is so dark and personal that it stands out as one of the better selections of the year.

Lead single "Never Again" is widely thought to be a continuation of "Since U Been Gone" and "Behind These Hazel Eyes" off her last album, although Kelly has repeatedly stated that this was not her intent. This is easily the most commercial song on the album, containing a much angrier and more bitter tone than its predecessors. Stylistically, it's probably not one of the best indicators of the direction of the album, but it certainly fits the theme. "One Minute" was originally intended to be on the Breakaway album, but was later revised and placed on this album instead. This one is not as immediately appealing as the previous track, but it is something of a grower. However, with so much better material on the rest of the album, it tends to get lost in the shuffle. The same could be said for "Hole", although it does fare somewhat better. The main problem with this track is the chorus is subpar lyrically, which is just puzzling because the rest of the lyrics are quite good. The chorus actually borders on obnoxious at times, but the rest of the track for the most part makes up for it.

Next up is a personal favourite in the form of "Sober", a hypnotic ballad about survival. Kelly has explicitly stated in interviews that this song is a metaphor, discussing any kind of addiction in your life, to counter assumptions that it was about personal experiences with alcohol and/or drugs. Both lyrically and musically, this song is simple yet beautiful, featuring a very controlled vocal performance which suits the tone impeccably. Without a doubt, this is an example of Kelly at her best. "Don't Waste Your Time" is another more commercial offering, and logical choice for a single. This is actually one of the better upbeat tracks, although it may take a while to be appreciated when placed against the numerous stunning slower tracks this album features. As with "One Minute", this is very much a grower, although it is somewhat better. "Judas" is an interesting song, although it may be a little too personal in the sense that is it not as easy to relate to. In case anyone's still wondering, the title is a Biblical reference to Judas, who betrayed Jesus. It is one of the stronger tracks, featuring controlled yet expressive vocals although some may find it a little repetitive.

The middle three tracks on this album are all prime examples of Kelly at her best. "Haunted", I have recently learned, is about someone Kelly knew who committed suicide. It is stylistically reminiscent of Evanescence and a great showcase of Kelly's songwriting skills. It's also quite interesting how Kelly's vocals are layered during the chorus, adding depth without cluttering the track with background singers. "Be Still" is a much calmer, country-influenced ballad and another indication of Kelly's songwriting talents. It seems to be a call to a former lover for a second chance, and strikes a nice contrast with the darker, angrier tones of the rest of the album. "Maybe" is the third of set of highlights, and continues much in the same vein as the previous track. It's a very raw track, which reads as if it were taken word-for-word from a diary entry. It once again highlights Kelly's lyrical abilities, and controlled vocal delivery. As individual tracks, each of the three would have been highlights, but taken together they make up a stunning combination which gives a firm indication of Kelly's potential, when permitted (however grudgingly) to release the kind of music she likes. "How I Feel" was another grower for me, although I still think the peppy, upbeat sound doesn't quite fit with the lyrics. Aside from that, it is a catchy offering, although does not fare as well when compared to the rest of the songs.

"Yeah" is easily my least favourite song on the entire album, due to the obnoxious chorus. If it weren't for that, it would be quite a strong track. The verses are good, but the chorus is lacklustre and detracts somewhat from the otherwise decent track. The bridge in particular sounds great. "Can I Have a Kiss" is another of the more mellow tracks, and much sweeter and more positive than the rest of the album. It again epitomizes everything that is good about this album: controlled vocals, well-written lyrics, and an emotive delivery. "Irvine", according to Kelly, was written while sitting on the bathroom floor of a concert venue at a time when she was feeling her lowest. It has a very stripped down, almost unplugged kind of feel. This is another album highlight, by far, an easily one of the most emotive songs. If I'm not mistaken, it was recorded in a single take. Finally, the bonus track "Chivas" is a sassy kiss-off to a former boyfriend. The acoustic style really adds to the song, as just Kelly and the guitar are all it really needs. I would love for Kelly to do more songs in a similar style.

Overall Mark: 4/5

An album like this makes me respect Kelly that much more, especially since she had a major hand in writing every song. While I enjoyed her first two albums, I never really got the sense that either of them were really "Kelly". It truly is a much darker, more negative sound than her previous work but it is material like this that shows the maturity and often the personal side to the artist. The ballads in particular showcase Kelly at her best, lyrically and vocally. I could have done with fewer of the rock tracks ("One Minute"), or at least rewrites ("Hole", "Yeah") in favour of the more introspective ballads. Nonetheless, if this is any indication of Kelly's future direction, I say Clive should sit back and let her have control.

This cd of Kelly has a little more rock than the other one, but really is excellent.

First, I think most of the "5 Star" Reviews are from Kelly-can-do-no-wrong die hard fans (most are probably from the overly sensitive website the Express.)

Okay, here's my review. I think it is clear she wasn't ready for this project either in her writing skills or in her career. I don't think she recognizes the help she got on Breakaway (especially from her ex who helped her on Breakaway, aka the Never Again guy). This is where the album falters- both in writing and engineering. To be honest, I now skip most of the songs. Many of them I can only stand for about a minute now. There are some good songs, though. The songs sound like they are unfinished and in need of major work. I completely agree now with Clive when he didn't want to release it as is. Kelly should pick her battles more wisely, or she will end up losing the war, her career. I don't understand why she couldn't compromise at all. Breakaway was about boy bashing and anger, as well, but there seems to be a despair and hopelessness in My December.

The Good Songs- Never Again, Sober (repeatitive but pretty), Maybe, How I Feel

Skip- Yeah, Judas, Irvine

I think that she should have released this album independently she had low concert sales due to her record label's lack of marketing, aside from all that I really think this album shows growth

.. Then any more sugary pop tarts and their fakery attempts to stardom. Kelly's talent is something worthy of my appreciation. Her previous effort, "breakaway" was an absolutely great fun catchy pop record that showcased her strong potent voice. This album enforces the ideaology that Kelly can sing but cannot surface to a pleasing area of astonishment. Most of the songs are slow and tepid and somewhat depressing. Never again is absolutely great but very memorable; Hole is tiring and not very catchy as are alot of the songs.. I have hope in her future effort's (lyrical) outcome since with this album, she was under extreme artistic and commercial pressure to deliver.

This is an awesome CD. It is a journey. You can listen to the whole CD! The hidden track is awesome. She really shows off her talent.

10 years from now, maybe 1 out of 10 pop stars currently on the charts will be still around. I don't know if Clarkson will be on that short-list, but one thing is for sure - she isn't afraid to put together a hard album that stretches her voice and emotional power, and that will help. That said, this is a solid album, with better writing and much more emotion than Breakaway, but it isn't a great album, merely a good one.

The 1st half of the album is quite good - a combination of strong rockers and one very deep personal Ballad ("Sober") that makes you wonder if Kelly has a few demons. "Never Again", "One Minute", and "Hole" are a 1-2-3 punch of hard-rock combined with Kelly's legendary vocal ability should have you relegating your Avril Lavigne CD's for coasters.

"Don't Waste Your Time" and "Judas" are also powerful, competent rockers - the latter being the most angry danceable song on the record with it's alt-rock foundation - one of my personal favorites - as is the very last song "Dirty Little Secret".

Unfortunately, the stuff between "Judas" and "Dirty Little Secret" is competent but disposable rock-pop filler that maintains the feel of the record but without the good elements of the 1st half. Some of it sounds like it was designed to give the album a couple of radio-friendly songs and ballads. "How I feel" is one example. It has a tempo and a sound, but it's lacking a hook. It also ends the argument for me that Kelly had no radio aspirations. This is where Clive Davis might have been able to add value to the record.

Oh by the way - is anyone still listening to the same music now that they were listening to when Breakaway was released? Then why would you expect Kelly to be still producing it? I guess in some minds, we fans are the only ones capable of changing and growing.....

4 stars for the 1st half of the record, 2 stars for the 2nd half, 5 stars for Kelly's always pleasant voice, even on the worst songs..... = round up to 4 stars.

Dont listen to what people say about how "bad" the album is, the thing is people cant accept change. Kelly will never make another album like Breakaway or Thankful. How boring would it be to have the same stuff over and over. Lyrically this album is a masterpiece. My December reminds me of Jagged Little Pill. The music clashes together well with the lyrics and its all so raw. There's no in between in the songs - theyre right to the point of what shes trying to say. My December is probably now one of my favorite albums of all time. Each song is relatable. They dont have to have strong hooks like Since U Been Gone - which was a formula song and the formula has been copied many more times by that producer. Shes not a puppet as Clive Davis tried to make her to be. Shes an artist with a real vision and a vision to have a lasting career and not a song by song career. Way to go Kelly on this release!

Kelly wrote or cowrote all the songs on this albums and the lyrics are amazing. Don't listen to all the people who are bad mouthing Kelly. I think I actually like this albums better than Breakaway. It is more personal and emotional. My favorite songs are Sober, Maybe, Irvine, the hidden song Chivas, and Haunted.