Box

When she delivered Box, Sam Brown had long since disappeared from the pop spotlight. It was nearly ten years since the hit single "Stop," and while she had continued to tour and record, her audience had shrunk substantially. That's too bad, because Box is arguably her best effort yet. Brown has always been a fine vocalist, but her material can be uneven. As Box illustrates, she's developed into a first-rate songwriter, capable of crafting melodic, memorable songs with true emotion and depth. It's mature pop with many layers and levels, and while that may limit its audience, those that want to seek it out will be pleasantly surprised by the strength of Box. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine