Here is my rating to each song:
Fantasy
The first song of a solo singer who shot from zero to one in the American charts. And rightly so! The song makes you feel good and you would like to dance around the room. When Video Mariah led self directed. 10/10
Underneath the Stars
Beautiful ballad in the style of the 70s. Getting used to, since it does not concern the usual pabulum. But when it has unfolded until you want more of it. 9/10
One Sweet Day
Mariah's duet with Boyz II Men, the then hottest RnB Group. A Song of superlatives 16 weeks on the US number one. A time record until today. Lyrically it's about saying goodbye to a deceased person - very sad and emotional. 10/10
Open Arms
For me, one of Mariah's most beautiful ballads. Her voice is particularly great no matter what and the choir that accompanies the chorus, forms a beautiful carpet of sound which acts never intrusive. As a single, unfortunately with little success. 10/10
Always Be My Baby
Mariah 11ter US number-one hit in the US. This mid-tempo song is catchy. Although Mariah sings about a separation, the song makes a good mood and encouraged to sing along. 10/10
I am free
Typical Mariah ballad. Languishing and without major highlights. For me, a gap filler. 5/10
When I Saw You
Another filler, on the one could have done without. Same style as I am free. 5/10
Long ago
Here you can hear for the first time in Mariah's career real hip-hop elements. Mariah wrote and produced the song with Jermaine Dupri, who took great influence on their later sound. Casual number - even for non-hip hop lovers! 10/10
Melt Away
Very sensual song. The first verse is sung by Mariah in a very deep voice. Adds variety and just sounds great. 10/10
Forever
Unusual ballad in waltz time. Lyrically little corny, but the catchy melody and varied arrangements make it up for it. Above all, the fade-out at the end sounds beautifully. Often hear! 9/10
Daydream Interlude
Fully redundant recording a remix of Fantasy. One would tackle problems here either a complete new song or to completely dispense with the number 11. 0/10
Looking In
Successful completion of the album. An autobiographical ballad in a minor key. Very touching glimpse into Mariah's inner life during her unhappy marriage with Tommy Mottola. 8/10
Conclusion: A great album that shows Mariah as a mature artist. Anyone thinking whether to buy more music box or DAYDREAM, which I would recommend this album. It is not so shallow and offers more variety.