On “Womanizer” the singer wisely decides that a tomcatting guy isn’t for her. A faithful, decent man earns her respect (“Unusual You”), and motherhood gives life new luster (“My Baby”). A jilted woman doesn’t dwell on what might have been, but rather looks ahead to better days and a healthier state of mind (“Out From Under”). It could be argued that “Shattered Glass” warns men about the emotional consequences of infidelity. However …
That scorned woman relishes the idea of her ex being tormented by misery and regret. The chorus of “If U Seek Amy” spells out the f-word. Tobacco and alcohol creep into that track as well. Britney brags about being a “put-on-a-show kinda girl” who commands the spotlight (“Circus”), then uses the phrase “ef me over” as she describes her mercurial relationship with the paparazzi (“Kill the Lights”). All is a “Blur” for a hungover woman the morning after a one-night stand. That track and others resort to profanity. On “Lace and Leather” Britney lustily refers to herself as a “b–ch” ready to make a man’s sexual fantasies come true. She prides herself on being an emotionless lover who always gets her way (“Mannequin”) and invites a guy to grab and make out with her (“Mmm Papi”). She also scopes out a potential mattress mate on “Radar” (“Think I can handle that animal in the sack”).
An aptly titled disc, considering the media circus that has swirled around this artist throughout her career. Some good bits, but she’s still a salacious tease.