Mariah Carey is, somewhat ironically, making a much more triumphant comeback with 'Almost Home' than she did with, well, 'Triumphant (Get 'Em).' The song is a return to form for the multi-octave diva.

'Almost Home' sounds like a Carey track from the days of yore -- her 90's heyday -- in the best way. With a Stargate-produced beat, the song sounds like it'd fit right in on Carey's pop classics 'Music Box' and 'Daydream.' The upbeat song relies on Carey's unrivaled gifts of melody, harmony and power instead of attempting to attain street cred with guest rappers, and it's where she shines brightest.

The track starts out with a more R&B vibe in the verses, then morphs into a poppier tune for the choruses. The song has a motivational message akin to Carey's unstoppable ballad 'Hero,' but combines it with an upbeat, uptempo track. While Carey does her typical showing off vocally here -- let's be honest, if you could do half the things she can with your pipes, you would too -- she doesn't go overboard with the histrionics a la Christina Aguilera.

The song is a perfect fit for Disney's 'Oz: The Great and Powerful' soundtrack and a perfect way for the 'American Idol' judge to reassert herself on her throne of pop royalty. It's a frothy, fun, radio friendly confection with only the mildest hint of bubblegum to prevent toothaches.

Listen to Mariah Carey, 'Almost Home'

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