Geri Halliwell’s Mixed Style Shows on ‘Schizophonic’

** GERI HALLIWELL

“Schizophonic”

Capitol

Just a year after trading in her Union Jack mini-dress and pop star notoriety for demure suits and a breast cancer crusade, the former Ginger Spice returns with a solo debut (in stores Tuesday) that tailors the Spice Girls’ formula to her own individual, ahem, personality.

Ten slick ‘n’ slinky songs feature a variety of pop moods, from tropical camp (“Look at Me”) to bluesy cocktail vamp (“Goodnight Kiss”) to mid-tempo love ballad (“Lift Me Up”). Halliwell, who co-wrote all the material, sings in a bland, husky voice that faintly recalls Madonna, a similarity many tracks seem designed to exploit. Still, she never takes herself too seriously, except when reflecting on the frivolity of her previous incarnation in the swirly ballad “Walkaway.” Yet the production is so layered with overblown climaxes and musical filigree that her lighthearted attitude is painfully distorted.

Fans may enjoy the positive messages, which echo the upbeat Spice worldview, but Halliwell presents so many facets it’s hard to get a clear picture. The funky dance grooves, sitar-driven rocker and bilingual ode to a Latin lover also recall her former group’s penchant for mixing up styles. Yet such a fragmented musical personality only makes Halliwell appear to be trying on roles, hoping to find one that fits.

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