Identified

What’s the Story?

IDENITIFIED is the sophomore album from High School Musical sensation Vanessa Hudgens. Working with A-list songwriter-producers like JR Rotem, Dr. Luke, Tim James, and Antonina Armato, the 19-year-old singer-actor-dancer showcases more hip-hop and contemporary beats than before.

Is It Any Good?

It isn't easy to stand out among a seemingly growing crowd of teen pop stars who sing and either have their own TV show or are in a movie. Vanessa Hudgens is obviously trying to make a new name for herself as a serious singer, and not just Troy's sweet girlfriend who churns out bubblegum pop.

On Identified, her sound is different -- more mature -- yet at times more of the same innocent pop. On tracks like "Sneakernight" (the first single) and "Last Night," Hudgens brings a surprising and refreshing, bluesy side to some catchy lyrics. There's also a lot of hip-hop, synth-heavy dance beats that are great to move to -- but tend to sound like many songs you might hear already. "Identified," "Hook It Up," and "Amazed" (with Lil Mama) may not be what fans expect from little Miss HSM, but definitely showcase a shift and maturity in her voice and style, as well as upbeat, contemporary mixes. If nothing else, Vanessa proves she can hang with the rest of them, and she does so with just a little more confidence this time around.