It doesn't make sense to wait until I have time to write something substantial
So, sloppy randomness:
I have a new favorite artist. Her name is Adele and she is 19 and has exactly one album out (called... "19"). I'm not sure what genre it is. Probably pop, but more in the singer/songwriter category, maybe alternative pop? Does that exist? I don't know. Anyway, she wrote most of her songs on the album, almost all of which are so sing-able and melodic and simple. I am in awe. But the best part is her voice...! She has perfect pitch at all times, which is so rare these days. Then she also has a great range, but her voice can change from bell-like clear to husky and a little deep and raw... it's the kind of voice I've always wanted to have (there is nothing husky or deep about my singing). The first time I heard it I thought she was black (She isn't though. Quite white and from London), which is ironic because there seem to be so many white singers (think Christina Aguilera) who strain their voices into these crazy sounds in a completely futile attempt to immitate Whitney Houston and here is this girl who is not trying hard at all (another thing that makes listening to her so enjoyable) yet produces a vocal sound occasionally reminiscent of Motown. Occasionally. Because the album is nothing like Motown. Half the songs are only her with a guitar or piano and you hardly even notice it because she is just that good all by herself.
Anyway, one of my favorite songs on the album is #1 (Daydreamer) which opens up the album with a very happy combination of melody and lyrics, delightfully to sing along to (essential for me when listening in the car). Another one is #9 (Make You Feel My Love), which is actually a Bob Dylan cover. When you go to her site: http://www.adele.tv/ it will play in the background. # 8 (Light as Rain) is another great song, somewhat different than all the rest, with a very catchy rhythm and upbeat pace (depressing lyrics, yet it works) and #6 (Melt My Heart to Stone) with incredibly wordy lyrics, although not one is too much. The first line alone perfectly sums up dread:
"Right under my feet there's air made of bricks..."
On December 6th this year there was a John Mayer concert (acoustic!) in LA and the opening act was... Adele! It's like they were thinking of me. Except they forgot I don't live in LA exactly...
I'm familiar with her because I spent some late nights watching VH1 while Anthony was newborn. They played her video a lot. I can remember how the song goes but not exactly what it's called...chasing something. Anyway, I agree that her voice is really unique, and interestingly rich.
Interesting comments... I have only heard her "Chasing Pavements" and it's good vocally - the video (have you seen it?) is totally bizarre, I think. Or maybe I am not deep enough - another likely possibility.