CD Review: Speak for Yourself

Genre: Electronic

Released: July 18, 2005

NOTE: Extreme bias may affect the outcome of this review!

Imogen Heap is, without a doubt, one of the most brilliant musicians of our time. She is also one of the most underrated - it just seems that she doesn't get the praise that she so rightly deserves. I am eagerly waiting the followup to her commercial debut, Speak For Yourself. She is one of the rare artists who works hard and is good at what she does, and always pleases her fans.

OK, now that I've gotten that off my chest... even I will admit that Speak For Yourself is not a flawless album. However, let's start with the good stuff: Imogen knows Electronic - she is the queen. Heap is able to weave together otherwise lifeless samples and create an intricate and intimate feel on the album. The album is well paced, and her voice is ethereal and highlighted by the accompanying music. She produces catchy tunes with tracks such as "Headlock" and "Goodnight and Go", contrasted by the haunting "Hide and Seek" and the sad sentiments on "Just For Now". 

The only snags on the album are "Daylight Robbery", "I am in Love with You" and "Closing In" - tracks that are little bumps, which slow the album down after repeated plays. Otherwise, the album is an amazing work that ever tires. 

Recommended Tracks: "Headlock", "Hide and Seek", "Just for Now", "The Walk"

RATING

Melody: 4.5/5 Lyrics: 4.5/5 "Catchiness" factor: 9/10

TOTAL: 9/10

TV: American Idol, Top 6 down to 5

Okay, I'm a Brooke White fan, but even I'm surprised. Let me do a quick recap. 

The judges haven't been on their game recently; it seems like, after hearing that ratings are slipping, the producers have pressured the judges to be nicer and to 'push' certain contestants. 

First was Syesha with "One Rock 'n' Roll Too Many" from Starlight Express. I didn't expect her to sing a song from Starlight, a fun little musical that I love. I actually liked her performance, and agreed with the judges. However, I understand why she was put in the bottom 2 - it's because of her video before the performance; she comes off as someone who is thinks she's a diva, but doesn't actually have the diva voice. The Bottom 2 is where she'll be staying for the next while, unless she learns some humility. 

Jason Castro was next with "Memory" from Cats. I knew someone was going to do it, but Jason? After Andrew Lloyd Webber made the comment about the glamourpuss, everyone in my house groaned - setup for a terrible performance. When you watch it the first time, the performance doesn't seem that bad, but rewatch it and you really notice how much of a "train wreck" (as Randy so aptly deemed it) Castro was. In fact, I may be so bold as to call it the worst performance on AI Season 7 thus far.

Brooke, Brooke, Brooke... when I heard she was singing "You Must Love Me", which I predicted, I went head over heels. Then she had to stop the song. My heart sank. Turns out, she forgot the lyrics. She sung well enough afterwards, although the performance was stiff. Not as bad as Jason, but definitely the second weakest performance of the night. Bonus points for not commenting after every word the judges said, though - she removed the only annoying personality flaw she had, leaving just sweet Brooke White - which ultimately saved her. 

Next was David Archuleta, our favourite Mouseketeer, singing "Think of Me". Yes, he changed it, and yes he was the only one who did put a twist on a broadway song, but at the same time it lost some of the magic of the song. Also, he completely missed a line and mumbled something completely random - but the judges didn't notice at all. Surprising? Nope, they want David around as long as possible.

Carly Smithson sang "Superstar", and boy did she sing! I am so glad she chose this song, although I thought she wore something a little odd. How did she get voted off? Who knows, but it wasn't for a lack of singing ability. 

David Cook rounded off the night, singing "Music of the Night". However, he didn't change it around - the opposite of what was expected. I liked it, but I didn't love it. And the last note would have been better off pure, without the rasp. Still, I'm going to call it the best performance of the night - the high note mid-performance was spectacular. 

Altogether a very odd night - exactly what was expected. Next week, the Idols take on Neil Diamond, which should help Jason and Brooke, but at this point nothing seems like a guarantee. 

TV: American Idol, Top 7

Sorry that I haven't been posting recently, but I've been really busy with university (finals coming up), meaning I may not even get to watch Idol Top 6! Anyway, back to a quick recap of this week, along with something new: my predictions for the next performances!

The Idols took on the current diva of song, Ms. Mariah Carey. With her newest single, "Touch My Body", having recently reached number one, she is now officially overtaken "the King" - Elvis - in holding the most number one singles for a solo artist (she's still a few singles behind the Beatles - but not far!). At any rate, let's get right down to business: how would the idols fair against an unbelievable vocal range and songs set in the minds of the viewers? 

Well, as Simon said, the boys definitely outshined the girls - although that's to be expected, since the boys can't be compared to Mariah, while the girls are forced to sing in her shadow. This week, David A. made the most predictable song choice, "When You Believe", and sang it quite well - although it was nothing to get excited about. Jason Castro sang "I don't wanna cry", a slow song, but Jason did OK. Finally, David Cook sang "Always be my baby", which was definitely the most original of the night, but the judges were too pleased with it - did they not notice the terrible beginning to the performance? Still, David Cook was probably the best of the night, which probably tells you how the girls did.

Carly Smithson took on "Without You", and while she sang well, it wasn't very inspiring, and she didn't do anything new with the song. Therefore, it was obviously disappointing when she reached high notes that paled in comparison to Mariah's high notes. Kristi and Syesha both did rather unknown songs, and it shows - since I don't even remember what they sang. Although it would seem smart to sing unknown songs - and thus not be compared to Mariah - they instead came off as forgettable and boring. Which is probably what saved Brooke, who sang a terrible rendition of "Hero". Now, Brooke is one of my favourites (well, is my favourite) but even I have to admit that the beginning was sketchy and the end was rushed - altogether a performance that could have seen us say goodbye to Brooke White, except that Kristi was absolutely boring this week, and was already hanging by a thread from the start. 

Thus, Kristi Lee Cook was the next Idol to be voted off. Now, next week the Idols are taking songs from Andrew Lloyd Webber, and I'm really, really afraid. I love ALW and his works, but I get the feeling that the Idols aren't going to be able to pull off the songs properly - not that they couldn't sing some of his songs, but that they're going to make poor choices. 

So my predictions for next week? I think the bottom three will be Syesha Mercado, Brooke White and Jason Castro - with any three of them having an equal chance of going at this point. It all really depends on their performances - if one of them has an amazing performance, then they'll be replaced with Carly Smithson. Both Davids seem safe purely on popularity, and the fact that I'm confident they will both choose songs that complement their voices. 

For each contestant, I'll give you a song they should sing, and a song they probably will sing, based on past choices:

Jason Castro: 

Song he should sing: Another Suitcase in Another Hall, Night of a Thousand Stars, Any Dream Will Do

Song he will sing: ?

There are two reasons I have put Jason in the bottom three this week: One is that the pattern this season for Idols leaving is boy-girl-boy-girl, and the next in the pattern is a boy. The second reason is that I cannot really see Jason being able to pull of any ALW songs, save for the two mentioned above. He really should sing "Night of a Thousand Stars" which is the only song I could see him singing decently. But who knows?

Brooke White:

Song she should sing: You Must Love Me, Learn To Be Lonely, With One Look

Song she will sing: something from Joseph, something from Phantom, Memory

OK, Brooke has a very unique voice, so she could, as long as she remembers to go slow and not sing an upbeat tempo song, sing about 20 different ALW songs, but I suggested "You Must Love Me" (Evita), "With One Look" (Sunset Boulevard) and "Learn To Be Lonely" (Phantom of the Opera, 2004 movie) - the Evita song is emotional, but it may be too boring for viewers, so I'd really like to see her sing "Learn To Be Lonely" or "With One Look", which will tug at the heartstrings of the audience. However, I'm really afraid she'll sing something from Joseph, which are upbeat or tacky songs or any other Phantom song, which really need a powerful voice to be effective. Finally, "Memory" could work for Brooke, but it seems like one of those songs to just avoid in a competition.

Syesha Mercado:

Song she should sing: "Everything's Alright", "Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again", "Don't Cry for me Argentina", "Buenos Aires"

Song she will sing: "Memory", "Don't Cry for me Argentina"

Syesha is another hard one - she has the voice to pull of a multitude of ALW songs, but I don't think she'll bring anything really original, so she may seem blah to the audience. If she doesn't do an emotional ballad, she'll be a goner, that's for sure.

Carly Smithson:

Song she should sing: "Superstar", "Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again", "Buenos Aires"

Song she will sing: "Buenos Aires", something from Phantom or Superstar

OK, this is a little hard for me, because I don't really like JC Superstar, so I'm not familiar with any songs that she may sing from it. However, I absolutely feel that "Buenos Aires" is the song for Carly - it's fun and fast enough, and leaves a TON that she can do to the song to make it unique.

David Cook:

Song he should sing: "Oh, What A Circus", something from JC Superstar, "The Music of the Night", "Point of No Return", "Mr. Mistoffelees"

Song he will sing: ? 

By now, I know that we never really know what David Cook will sing for sure - but he has some really nice picks this week, and he is poised to be the best of the night this week. I think "Point of No Return" could be really intersting... oh, and I added "Mr. Mistoffelees" only because I'd just love to see him surprise everyone and sing a song like that - and still pull it off! :P 

David Archuleta:

Song he should sing: "Learn to Be Lonely", "Starlight Express"

Song he will sing: Almost guaranteed to be from Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat: Any Dream Will Do, Close Every Door

UGH, now I would like David to sing "Starlight Express", a simple tune that has a good range that suits his voice, but I know he'll sing "Close Every Door" or "Any Dream Will Do", because that's just who he is... and everyone will eat it up. I like the musical, but these songs are meant to stay within the confines of the play. 

So there you go! Depending on their picks, any of the first four could be going home, although Brooke is the closest to the chopping block this week. Let's hope she picks a good one!!!

CD of the Week: Jordin Sparks

Genre: Pop

Released: November 20, 2007

When Jordin won Season 6 of American Idol, I was a little disappointed; I was really pulling for Melinda Doolittle. "This Is My Now" was a song that tired quickly, and didn't have the catch of previous Idol winning songs, like "A Moment Like This". When Jordin finally put out her first single, "Tattoo", I was again left unimpressed; it was a simple, bland song that meant nothing and did nothing to establish an image for Jordin.

So, I wasn't expecting more than dribble on the self titled debut Jordin Sparks; in terms of celebrities, I didn't expect it to be as bad as Britney Spears, but more of a Lindsay Lohan - not terribly screwed up, but definitely below par. 

The cover certainly seemed to cement my feelings - it's a dreadful cover that shows Jordin looking much older than she is, and not to mention with an absolutely emotionless look on her face (the Australian cover is a DRASTIC improvement). 

However, and fortunately for Jordin, appearances are deceiving. In fact, after a few listens of the album, there's no valid reason that it's sales are so low (by Idol standards): it's certainly a better first effort than Clarkson's, Studdard's, Burrino's and Hicks', and way better than any Clay Aiken or Kelly Pickler CD. Also, when Jordin hits her stride on a few tracks, she absolutely soars and sings some of the greatest pop songs I've heard in a long time! 

At the same time, I'm not really surprised it hasn't done too well; CD reviewers didn't feel that this CD showed the real Jordin Sparks, leading to average reviews. That, coupled with the awful cover can really hurt sales. What's boosted them are the singles, particularly "No Air", and her next slated single, "One Step At A Time", is probably going to give her sales another much needed boost. 

So, onto the review of the actual songs: yes, I agree that they're not what people have seen as Jordin Sparks, as in soulful and trying to please the audience, but that's pretty hard to relay in a song - actually, darn near impossible. Fortunately, I had all but forgotten Sparks by the time her first single and album came out, so I was listening as if I had never heard her before. And I must say, the reviewers aren't giving her enough credit. 

OK, the bad news first: there are tracks on this album that are absolute crud; useless lyrics, an annoying beat, and a completely false Sparks that seems to shy away from the mic. Examples of this terrible mistake in music include the oddly synthetic "Shy Boy" and the Prince inspired "Young and In Love" - wholly not Jordin. Other mistakes include "See My Side", the musical equivalent of a lobotomy, and the weirdly titled "God Loves Ugly" - any song with the word ugly in the title is pretty off-putting. 

Now, having said that, when Jordin is singing a song that better suits her vocally and personally (not perfectly, but closer than those faux-club songs), she is absolutely stunning. In fact, I'd say some of the songs are pop classics, rightfully putting her alongside Rihanna and Beyonce (but not with Mariah or Leona). "No Air" had me hooked the moment I heard the first tell me how I'm s'posed to breathe with no air, and "One Step at a Time" is the Idol winning song that should have been: inspirational and heartfelt. However, Jordin's greatest achievement is the track "Now You Tell Me" - a song about growing up, which is exactly what we want to hear from this young songstress. Also, I would say splurge and get the deluxe edition of this CD (if you use iTunes to purchase music) - the three bonus songs are solid tracks that should have replaced the aforementioned trainwrecks. 

In summation, Jordin Sparks has made a solid debut - albeit with some bumps - but it's definitely not a bland album, which is more than I can say for the majority of AI contestants.

Recommended Tracks: "No Air", "One Step at a Time", "Now You Tell Me", "Permanent Monday", "Worth the Wait"

RATING

Melody: 4/5 Lyrics: 3/5 "Catchiness" factor: 7/10

TOTAL: 7/10

TV: American Idol, Top 8 Perform

Tonight the Idols performed songs that inspire them. Oh, joy. Like I didn't see the Idols performing inspirational songs the night before Idol Gives Back coming from a mile away. On the plus side, this was the first one-hour performance show, a small win for the audience's sanity. Of course, each contestant's video was a little sappy anecdote. 

First up was Michael Johns with "Dream On" by Aerosmith. Last week, he was amazing, so it's only natural to compare it to then and, well, it was definitely not as good. In fact, the falsetto screeching near the end was just odd. I mean, it was OK, but something didn't work out... it seemed boring. I agree with Randy (it was aiite) and also Simon (good performance, but doesn't fit him), while Paula was full of her usual fluff (you sound as good as you look?, Chihuahua reference?).

Next was Syesha Mercado, singing "I Believe" by Fantasia. I didn't actually remember Fantasia singing this song (I barely remember Fantasia ever since she disappeared) until Syesha started belting out those useless lyrics. Syesha doesn't have the same edge to her voice that made it trademark Fantasia, and I think that it was a poor song choice on Syesha's part. To her credit, Syesha sang it well, but I again agree with Randy (there wasn't the same connection). Paula said you can't compare Syesha to Fantasia, but if you choose to do a Fantasia song on American Idol, there has to be a comparison (like what Simon said... again, no emotion). 

Third was Jason Castro. The moment he said "Somewhere Over the Rainbow", I thought we were in for trouble - then he mentioned Israel Kamakawiwo'ole and I knew he'd have them in his hands. He and Israel share the same style, but it was absolutely no different from Israel Kamakawiwo'ole's version. The judges all ate it up, but I thought it was no 'better' than the first two performers, simply because it wasn't original. 

Kristi Lee Cook was next on up to the chopping blo - er - stage. She sang "Anyway" by Martina McBride, one of the greatest Country singers around (and that means a lot coming from me, since I hate Country). I was so blown away; Kristi actually sang well and what's more, she sang with a ton of emotion. She nailed "inspirational" songs week. Randy (a few pitch problems), Paula (loved it), and Simon (thought she brought who she really is, looks like a star) definitely got it right. 

David Cook sang "Innocent". Boy, did it start off awful in the low range. I know the song goes into falsetto during the "and I", but it sounded awkward, and for some reason, when David should have been belting out the notes, the background choir completely overshadowed his voice. And, did it end too soon? Oh well, it doesn't matter, he wrote "Give Back" on his hand, so there's no way they'll vote him off. Again, I find myself agreeing with Randy, hating Paula's fluff, and can't help agreeing with Simon's noting David is pompous.

Carly chose "The Show Must Go On" by Queen. When I heard that, I knew only Carly could take on a song like this with her wondrous range. I loved the beginning, and overall I thought it was OK, but nothing amazing or showstopping. I find myself agreeing with Randy once again; he seems to have it going on this week. Paula was odd again... coming the closest to sounding coherent and lucid this evening. And Simon gave USEFUL comments to Carly, which was amazing (that she sounded just to angry as opposed to inspirational). 

The second-last performer was David Archuleta, ruler of Teenage Girls' hearts. He decided to sing "Angels", which he felt so strongly... good God. If you hadn't guessed, he annoys me to no end. But, I do have to admit that his performance last week was the best. The chorus was definitely great, but I didn't really like the "I'm loving angels" parts near the ends of the verses, or the final note. He was better than any of the previous competitors, though. I'll agree with Simon for this performance... I just hope someone else steps up in the competition (but the only ones I could see going against him are David and Carly, and if Carly gets voted off....)

And last but not least, Brooke White, one of my favourites in the competition who has been making so-so song choices. But of course, this is inspirational week, and Brooke can't help but choose the sappiest song EVER made EVER. "You've got a Friend", which people, thankfully, will eat up. She sang sans piano/guitar, which usually means trouble, but it was, again, OK (a couple noticeable pitch problems, though). If it was purely vocals, she may be in trouble, but her performance was so full of heart (something Brooke seems to have mastered) that she'll definitely be safe. Randy summed it up succinctly, Paula said something that almost made sense, and Simon Cowell called it pleasant/nice, which is exactly what the song is anyway. 

So, what are my predictions for the bottom three? It's pretty easy this week: Carly (for the botched up and weird style), Syesha (picking an Idol winner's song? Suuuuicide) and either Michael (the falsetto freaked me out) or Kristi (just because she seems to live in the bottom three). 

I don't think anyone had an amazing performance here tonight, but I'd say David A. sang best, followed by Kristi and Brooke. I suppose Jason Castro was average, and David Cook has too many fans to go, although it was his weakest performance by far. 

CD Review: Mind How You Go

Genre: Electronic, Alternative

Released: March 2006 (US)

I first heard Skye on the TV show Grey's Anatomy; "Love Show" was used in one episode, and I immediately fell in love with this singer. When this album came out, I was going through a very tough time, and Skye helped me out of my rut - when you're feeling down, the songs are very uplifting.

The majority of the tracks are sparse, cold electronic backgrounds which juxtapose Skye's rich warm vocals. This combination may seem odd, but it works: it makes for a very intimate feeling. 

She's so captivating, and with each listen the songs only improve - Skye's personality bursts out of each song. The songs are hard to describe - her voice is haunting and the lyrics are sweet and meaningful. There are two 'types' of songs on this CD: the lush synthesized sounds of tracks like "Powerful" and "Love Show", and the barren backgrounds of songs like "Amen" and "Solitary". 

Overall, a great first effort from former Morcheeba frontwoman Skye.

Recommended Tracks: "Stop Complaining", "No Other", "Tell Me All About Your Day", "Say Amen"

RATING

Melody: 4.5/5 Lyrics: 4.5/5 "Catchiness" factor: 8/10

TOTAL: 8.5/10 

CD Review: The Con

Genre: Alternative, Rock

Released: July 24, 2007

Tegan and Sara, twin sister singers from Calgary, Canada, have been in the music biz for over ten years. I was in Malaysia at the time of the release, but fortunately managed to grab a copy. It's never left my iPod. 

The CD is something of an enigma; on the one hand, the songs are either serious in subject or light and poppy - nothing in between. Yet, all the tracks gel together and create a coherent  - and enjoyable - compilation. Trust me, the songs grow on you if you give them the chance - although there's nothing with the same obvious hook as past hits like "Walking with a Ghost" and "Where does the Good Go". However, the instrumentals are probably the best yet - the guitar is used superbly to accentuate the emotion felt by the lyricist on each track. 

It's obvious that Tegan and Sara also had a lot of fun on this album; they've produced some very intriguing songs. "Are you Ten Years Ago" is a splendid song that blends the voices of the twins perfectly, meshing over one another. "Like O, Like H" is a beautifully arranged and intricate piece. Other tracks are fun for the pure simplicity: "Back In Your Head" and "Hop a Plane" are easily the catchiest songs on the album, while I wish there were more tracks along the line of the title track, "The Con", which has such a pull to it (especially the first few strums of the guitar). Tegan and Sara have certainly put forth a strong album. 

Recommended Tracks: "The Con", "Are you Ten Years Ago", "Back in Your Head", "Nineteen", "Like O, Like H", "Call It Off"

RATING

Melody: 5/5 Lyrics: 4/5 "Catchiness" factor: 8/10

TOTAL: 8.5/10

In Retrospect: CD Review: The Sound of White

Genre: Pop, Alternative

Released: September 2004 (Australia), June 2005 (US)

There's something about Australia - the acts that arise from Down Under have that special something that's so endearing and attracting. Again, my aunt sent my mom this CD for Christmas, and it was quite possibly the best gift we received that year. The Sound of White by Missy Higgins is an intimate album; just Higgins and her piano (and occasionally a few other instruments or add-ins, I don't want to be called a liar). Her voice is clear and beautiful and oozes emotional connection, and the piano is the perfect accompaniment. 

Despite her light voice, Missy Higgins has put forth a very heavy album in terms of subject. But, it's not depressing; it's a beautiful look at how growing up and into love. "Scar", the catchiest and most upbeat song on the album, is about staying true to yourself; on "Ten Days", Higgins confesses that it's too hard to leave the love of your life, and the title track "The Sound of White", perhaps the most beautiful song of the album, is about coping when a loved one goes away.

Generally, I would write about how I'd love to hear another album from this artist, but her second album On a Clear Night, is already out, so I can tell you that it only gets better! Watch out for this girl; there will be big things coming from her.

Recommended Tracks: "Scar", "Any Day Now", "The River", "This is How it Goes", "The Sound of White"

RATING

Melody: 4/5 Lyrics: 4/5 "Catchiness" factor: 8.5/10

TOTAL: 8.25/10

CD Review: 19

Genre: Alternative, Soul

Released: January 28, 2008 (UK), TBR US

ADELE's debut CD, 19, I actually got a hold of on a whim - I had never heard of her before and did not know what to expect. When I did a quick search online, I found many comparisons to Amy Winehouse. Since I like Ms. Winehouse's musical style and candid lyrics (but nothing else about her), I hunkered down with my laptop and the CD and was ready for a soulful record full of Winehouse-like compositions. 

All I can say is, who in their right mind ever thought that ADELE and Winehouse were at all similar? For one, ADELE is a more, um, upstanding citizen? (so she's not likely to be drunk on stage or be denied access to the US), and although she's only 19 and doesn't have the same life experience of Winehouse, who has had experience enough for a few people, ADELE writes such amazing and insightful songs. And her voice is completely different from Winehouse's - smoother, which suits her songs perfectly. Each track maintains her soulful appeal, and yet has it's own unique sound. She effectively uses her voice as an instrument AND as a means of conveying meaningful lyrics, which is very rare nowadays. 

The range of her songs is quite wide, too - from the masterpiece "Hometown Glory", with it's amazing piano accompaniment, to "Cold Shoulder", a catchy and beat intense song. And don't forget the album's first single, "Chasing Pavements", which is somewhere in between the two extremes. No matter what the mood or occasion, ADELE has included a song that's guaranteed to be fitting. What can I say? I've fallen in love with the voice of ADELE, and I don't think that's a bad thing at all. I can't wait to hear more from her!

Recommended Tracks: "Chasing Pavements", "Cold Shoulder", "Melt My Heart to Stone", "Right as Rain", "Make You Feel My Love" (Bob Dylan cover), "Hometown Glory"

RATING

Melody: 5/5 Lyrics: 5/5 "Catchiness" factor: 9/10

TOTAL: 9.5/10

CD Review: My December

Genre: Pop, Rock

Released: June 26, 2007

Kelly Clarkson followed her heart and produced her third CD, My December, against the wishes of some... and everyone at home waited to see who would win the battle: would Kelly's CD be a great success, or a mega-bomb like the naysayers predicted? 

Well, it really depends on who you ask. It's true - none of the songs on My December have become successful singles, but that is a measure of marketability, not worth. 

When it first came out, I hadn't heard any of the controversy, and so I expected an album similar to Breakaway - and when I listened to My December I was so disappointed. None of the songs had strong pop hooks, and there was nothing that sounded like "Since U Been Gone" or "Behind These Hazel Eyes", let alone "Breakaway". In fact, after the first few songs, every track sounded the exact same; I had to stop, and left the album alone for a month in disgust. 

Then, a month later, I heard "Irvine" playing on the TV; the haunting vocals and simple sound captivated me, and I nearly died of shock when I discovered it was Kelly Clarkson. This time around, I left all my preconceived notions of Kelly behind, grabbed some water and my computer, and listened through the entire album. My December taught me to NEVER judge an album after a first (or half a first) listen. 

Kelly has really come into her own on this album; it's definitely not material that is covered in a mainstream pop album, but she sounds heartfelt and finally honest on each track. They are tough, but never tough to listen to, and a couple of the songs are brilliant, particularly the sad and soulful "Irvine" and the addictive feel of "One Minute". Mind you, there are moments that feel awkward and overdone - "Hole" has too much going on that the vocals, at some parts, are drowned by the guitar, and "Maybe" feels like a leftover song that starts off too slow and finishes just as it's getting good. 

Overall, a very good effort - but I hope that for Kelly's next album, she can combine the best of Breakaway (catchy tunes) and My December (great confessionals and more interesting sounds) together, because I don't think I don't think I could stand another My December, but I don't want a Breakaway now that I've had a taste of the real Kelly.

Recommended Tracks: "Never Again", "One Minute", "Not Today" (bonus), "Yeah", "How I feel", "Irvine", "Chivas"

RATING

Melody: 4/5 Lyrics: 5/5 "Catchiness" factor: 6/10

TOTAL: 7.5/10

TV: American Idol, Top 8

And then there were eight. 

This past week was Dolly Parton week, and it was, well, odd. It wasn't a terrible show, but it wasn't great, either. Highlights of the night were David Cook (who finally cleared up where he's been getting his 'originality'), David Archuleta (his first good performance in three weeks), Carly Smithson (who sang beautifully, note for note) and Michael Johns (his best performance thus far... he seems to improve each week). 

Brooke White, one of my favourites in the competition, was only average - for the song "Jolene", she seemed a bit too happy/smiley, and thus it didn't come off as sincere as it should have ("Jolene" is about a woman who steals the singer's man), although she sang very well. The judges gave Syesha Mercado a tough time, but I thought that she sang "I Will Always Love You" with a lot of emotion, which probably saved her. Of course, it didn't compare with Whitney, but it was still an amazing display of her talent. Jason Castro sang the most recent Dolly Parton song, "Travelin' Thru" from Transamerica. The song definitely suited him, but I couldn't help feeling that it was a little boring... each week, Jason looks more and more like a one-trick pony. 

And finally, there's Kristi Lee Cook and Ramiele Malubay. Dolly Parton's signature style is country, and so Kristi Lee Cook did fairly well (it's her element). But Ramiele... I knew right away that she was leaving after that performance. She was awkward, she didn't enunciate, and the song just didn't suit her voice. That girl can sing, but she never shows it on air!

So, when it came to the results show, there were no huge surprises. Ramiele, Kristi and Brooke were in the bottom 3, although I was a little surprised it wasn't Jason instead of Brooke. Also, while I find David Archuleta's constant humbleness a bit annoying, Kristi's pessimistic attitude is downright intolerable - I know she's trying to be funny/realistic about her chances, but it comes off as attitude from her. 

Aside from the results, the one hour results/useless filler show really had a lot going on. The non-results portion of the show began with a performance from The Clark Brothers, who aren't, er, my cup of tea? I felt like they didn't do the song "Let It Shine" justice, and at one point sounded more like they were shouting than singing. Next came a touching story of how Idol Gives Back has helped a homeless girl become reunited with her sister. While a very emotional story, I can't help feeling like this story was shown to pull money out of the pockets of viewers and, while for a very good cause, I don't like being guilted into donating - it's like one of those commercials that use gimmicky tricks. Good gracious, what type of show is this? Oh. Wait. That's right, it's American Idol (flashes back to Coke, Ford and Apple products flaunted throughout the show). Anyway, the last act on the show was a performance by Dolly Parton. Now, I'm not a country fan at all, but I do love Dolly - she's very down to Earth and a nice person. She performed "Jesus and Gravity", a song that was surprisingly catchy, although a song about Jesus and gravity? This is why country isn't for me (Religion and Science have found a harmonious place to coexist, and that place is Dolly Parton). 

And, at the very end of the episode, we finally get the results: Ramiele Malubay just didn't do enough to stay on the show, which is too bad, because I felt like she had a lot more in her. 

Next week is the Idol Gives Back, so who knows what's going on in terms of the competition. I'll update this post if I get any more information about the show.

CD of the Week: Spirit

Genre: Pop

Released: April 8, 2008 (US); April 29, 2008 (Asian Deluxe)

Leona Lewis, whom Brits have come to love through the X-Factor (semi-sequel show to Pop Idol, the show that spawned American Idol), is finally making her way across the pond. Actually, she made her US debut on the Oprah show, and I happened to be watching that day. Simon Cowell, who takes full responsibility for discovering her, introduced her, and after her performance of "Bleeding Love", Oprah declared that a star was born. And, of course, so let Oprah sayeth, so let it be done - Lewis' "Bleeding Love" shot up the charts. And I have to admit, "Bleeding Love" is one of the greatest pop songs I've heard in years (ranks up there with "I Will Always Love You"). However, you can't judge a book by it's cover, nor an album by a single song: does Spirit deliver the same punch as her first US single?

After my first listen, I wasn't very pleased with the album; it seemed like typical 'diva' fare. Many reviewers found it lacking a personal touch, which is too common in CDs put out by divas (Whitney, Celine, Mariah... I'm always disappointed by the choice to sing circles around the listeners instead of adding a shred of emotion). 

However, I think many reviewers were a bit too hasty. The reviewers of this album are (of course) all British, and have most likely watched Lewis on the X-Factor, and gotten to know her personality. In North America, this CD is her first appearance, and, after a second listen, Lewis' personality definitely shines through, just more subtly than is allowed on a reality show. Unlike other 'divas' (I use the term because Lewis has a diva voice, but not a diva attitude), Leona Lewis DOES add a personal touch and a bit of personality to her songs. And that, in my books, makes this album worth reviewing.

Not that it's an amazing album; Leona Lewis follows the typical formula of success. There aren't any songs that I particularly dislike; but there's a strange familiarity to a lot of the songs that keep this album from truly standing out, most notably "Here I Am", a very moving ballad that reminds me of Mariah Carey's "Hero". It's obvious that a lot of attention was given to each track, as the background beats are quite catchy on the pop songs, subtle for the ballads, and always complementary to Lewis' voice. Since the power ballads are signature diva, it's the hipper songs that give Lewis the most potential to become a household name. And luckily for the US audience, the two new songs added, "Forgive Me" and "Misses Glass", are both classic pop songs. 

The conclusion: Leona does nothing new, but that's okay; her voice is amazing and her songs are fun.

Recommended Tracks: "Forgive Me", "Bleeding Love", "Whatever It Takes", "Here I Am", "Better In Time", "I Will Be"

RATING

Melody: 4.5/5 Lyrics: 4/5 "Catchiness" factor: 8/10

TOTAL: 8.25/10