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