Jackie invokes the uptempo optimism of 2013's triumphant Ciara, but feels a little too familiar: "Hair pulled back, high heels, you gon' know about it by the end of this song," she sasses in signature fashion on "Kiss & Tell," but it's safe to assume most listeners already knew. The souped-up "One Woman Army" is Jackie's de rigueur ode to doing it yourself. Highlights "That's How I'm Feelin' " (featuring Missy Elliott and Pitbull) and "Give Me Love" target the dance floor in an effective, if somewhat mindless, fashion. When the party's over, Jackie concludes with the Diane Warren-penned "I Got You," a lullaby for Ciara's year-old son, Future Jr., but it feels out of place, saccharine and clichéd.
Maybe Ciara is at her best when her music's carefree -- but on Jackie, it sometimes seems like she doesn't care. Perhaps she was afraid to confront the realities of true heartache, or perhaps she has simply moved on. Good for her, but not as good for listeners:Jackie feels like a missed opportunity for a talented artist to connect with fans in a new way.