Anggun, the lovely, petite and glamorous Indonesian singer who's probably Indonesia's best export in the entertainment industry, has returned with her second English album, 'Chrysalis'. The word 'Chrysalis' means "pupa of a butterfly" or moth, signifying growth and maturity in Anggun's music as compared to her previous album, 'Anggun', which sold more than 1 million copies worldwide and spawned hits like 'Snow On The Sahara'. In fact, Anggun wrote all 15 songs featured on 'Chrysalis' or 'Desir Contraires (Contrary Desires)' as it is known in France, where she is based.

All the songs on 'Chrysalis' are love songs but don't expect any ballads like those mass-produced by the current crop of teen pop queens or boy bands, for they are presented in the "Anggun way"- a little bit of pop as background with Anggun's powerful voice overwhelming everything else. You'll know what I mean if you have listened to any of her songs before.

The first song on the album, 'Still Reminds Me Of You' is about her memories of her ex-. She can't forget him no matter how hard she tries. Everything seems to remind her of him and even going out with someone new doesn't wash away the memories. On the other hand, 'Non-Angelical' is about Anggun's advice to a guy who's interested in going after another girl who, in Anggun's opinion is a hypocrite, irrational, cynical and sensually unappealing to boot. However, he didn't believe her and in the end, couldn't accept the fact that she (the hypocrite) dumped him.

There's also an inspirational song that asks listeners to look into themselves in order to improve their lives. The song, titled 'Look Into Yourself', tells listeners that they shouldn't be afraid to change their lives for they themselves are the masters of their destiny. (I personally find this motivating because it reminds me that I'm actually the one that decides who I am and not those people around me.)

Although I mentioned that the songs on 'Chrysalis' were presented the "Anggun way", 'Want You To Want Me' is exceptional. This is a piece where piano sounds are used as an accompaniment and it sounds like something done by Jim Brickman. In conclusion, the songs on Chrysalis sound alike rhythmically, but trust me on one thing...it's best listened to when you're stuck in a traffic jam. Why? Coz it's uptempo enough to keep you awake.

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