Johansson has enlisted a hot producer, David Bowie sings backing vocals and there is a member of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs involved also ... but the album is still rank! This is actually the product of a pampered Hollywood star who thinks it is cool to belt out some "rock tunes" (see her singing karaoke of a Pretenders song in 'Lost in Translation').

Seriously now, it takes guts to attempt to cover the music of Tom Waits, especially when you're not previously known for your musical talent. I can't imagine why the elfin actress would have chosen Waits' songs for her debut album, and unfortunately she doesn't have the vocals to match.

Her low pitched (almost masculine) vocals are for the most part drowned out by the musical accompaniment, which on this album isn't too much of a bad thing. On the good side, there are three tracks that aren't that bad after a second listen, and two of them are due to David Bowie's input. These are the first single "Falling Down" and track five, "Fannin Street". The third is the light hearted "I Don't Wanna Grow Up".

This is an album you may hate on the first and second listen, but the three tracks I've mentioned may eventually grow on you. But, for the most part this is way beyond boring and pretentious. So, what's next ... her covering Lou Reed songs? Come on, give me a break ... please!

Scarlett Johansson AOL Sessions

Scarlett Johansson Pepsi Smash Performance

"Falling Down" Music Video

CD Purchase Link