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CRAZY review
Producer(s): Glen Ballard
Writer(s): Seal
Publisher(s): SPZ, BMI
Genre: POP
Label/Catalog Number: (Maverick) CD promo
Source: Billboard Magazine
Originally Reviewed: October 29, 2005


Considering the schizo mix of iPod and Jack radio playlists, it is not surprising that Alanis Morissette chose Seal's sublime 1991 "Crazy" to spice her best-of, "The Collection," out Nov. 15. But the result—a faux rock disco throb—is a bit disconcerting. Morissette pumps out unabashedly muscular beats and sugars them with semi-crunchy, phasing guitars, as if she were vying for a dancefloor kiss from Madonna. The vocal performance throughout the verse honors Seal's template and works up a shivery groove that recalls the furious bravado of "You Oughta Know," her 1995 debut. But only seconds later, the techno staccato in the chorus turns "Crazy" into a bland slice of synth-soaked AC pop. The promo single's additional Glen Ballard Mix cranks up the guitars and drives this bizarro project home. —Sven Philipp