Breakdown (1999) Amid the bombast, Breakdown introduces a softer side of Melissa Etheridge: low-key songs and a lot of hand-wringing about "soul." Problem is, low-key subtlety isn't… Melissa Etheridge Rock
EW's GRADE
C+

Details Lead Performance: Melissa Etheridge; Genre: Rock

Amid the bombast, Breakdown introduces a softer side of Melissa Etheridge: low-key songs and a lot of hand-wringing about ''soul.'' Problem is, low-key subtlety isn't her strong point. ''Angels Would Fall,'' which parades earnest spirituality, does have a terminally anthemic classic-rock chorus. Unfortunately, it's a lonely exception.

Originally posted Oct 08, 1999 Published in issue #506 Oct 08, 1999 Order article reprints