Track review: Katharine McPhee's "Had It All"

In anticipation of her forthcoming album ‘Unbroken’ (Oct. 6) courtesy of Verve Forecast, Katharine McPhee opts for a new look, and more importantly, a new sound as demonstrated by the album’s lead single “Had It All.”

Leaving behind the R&B-fused pop and open-toed shoes found on her debut LP, McPhee settles for a more earthy sound while marinating her vocal prowess. Although it is inaccurate to classify the song as being “indie,” it definitely gives off indie vibes as her vocals glide seamlessly over the barely polished production of the track.

“Had It All” was co-penned by an all-star trio of Mitch Allan, Kara DioGuardi and David Hodges, and the lyrics work for the most part despite having a bland chorus (“I had it all I threw it all aside / thinking there was more there I needed to find / I had it all baby till you went away”).

At the song’s bridge, McPhee harkens back to her days on ‘Idol’ with a building, billowing high note that carries through the song’s remainder, and finally settles on a crisp, calm finale.

Katharine McPhee surely is back in the game, only this time her true persona will shine through thanks to songs like “Had It All” that will allow her to demonstrate the most suitable styles of music for the budding artist.

"Had It All" is now available to purchase on iTunes.