Exodus

Exodus, the first crossover album from Japanese pop star Utada, is an eclectic mix of danceable pop, infused with electronic and techno music. From the intricate rythyms to the off beat lyrics, "Exodus" is unlike anything heard before in the U.S.

"Devil Inside" has a danceable, clubbing in Japan kind of vibe and is one of the more interesting tracks on the album. "Exodus 04" has a similar kind of appeal, but with a seductive middle eastern beat--courtesy of hit maker Timbaland.

"Easy Breezy" is another standout with a light, pop radio feel, although the lyrics caught me off guard. Lines like, "You're easy breezy, and I'm Japaneesy," and "She's got a new microphone," lost me completely, but I guess that's when you tune out and just enjoy the music.

One thing in Utada's favor is that she wrote and produced most of the album herself, with the exception of two tracks created for her by Tim.

"Exodus" may be a little too exotic to be an out of the box hit, but there's a lot of potential there. The music industry needs to be shaken up a bit anyways, and this may be just the girl to do it.