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