Gray driven by psychic energy

It must be Macy Gray's psychic energy and drive which, combined with other elements, allows The Id to surpass its predecessor. While On How Life Is highlighted Gray's distinct vocal style, the record lacked the vigor of her latest release. \nThe Id starts off on the right track with "Relating To A Psychopath," a fast-moving, disco-funk-rock number. "Boo" slows things down a bit, still maintaining just the right amount of soul, especially in the chorus.\n"Sexual Revolution" starts off relaxed, with Gray's vocals sounding vulnerable with nothing but soft strings and chorus backing her up. The backup vocals get stronger, as do the strings, and then all of a sudden, we have a rock-pop song. For "Sexual Revolution," think Billie Holiday on lead vocals and the Supremes doing back-up.\nGray reaches out to the children of the world in "Hey Young World Part 2," featuring Slick Rick, mixing in a choir of young voices and leaving me craving part one.\nThe first released single, "Sweet Baby," featuring Erykah Badu, doesn't represent the style of the rest of the disc, much like the first album's "I Try." Gray puts her heart into the piece, shown both in the performance and the lyrics which she wrote.\n"Harry" talks about mixed signals between a guy and a girl. What was a one night stand for her was something deeper for him. "Gimme All Your Lovin' Or I Will Kill You," speaks about getting love any way you can, including sex at gun point. Erotic? Not so much, but a good song nonetheless.\nOther standout tracks include the groovin' "Don't Come Around," featuring Sunshine Anderson harmonizing with Gray in the chorus. "My Nutmeg Phantasy" combines elements of 1970s disco, featuring Angie Stone and Mos Def. \nSinging of love, sex and psychopaths, The Id even includes a number for the kids -- Gray proves she's here to stay with a brighter, more inspired sound.\nRating: 9