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Rockferry
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Duffy;
Polydor Group;
2008-03-03;
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Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days
*Best price found from Amazon Marketplace seller
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*Amazon: £7.38
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 Product Description
Rockferry, the Welsh singer's lovingly constructed debut album, has already succeeded beyond expectations, and although Duffy may not quite be the ingénue portrayed by a clever press campaign (she nearly won a local television talent show a few years back while a single credited to Aimee Duffy is still available on iTunes) she is surely the most appealing of the current flood of young soul sirens. The astonishing title track, co-written by Bernard Butler, sounded like a lost transmission that had taken decades to get through as soon as it hit radio last year. But the gently rolling soul ballad "Stepping Stone", that strapping, inescapable monster hit "Mercy", the ice cool "Serious" (the one time she really does channel the spirit of Dusty Springfield) and the wistful, elegant "Warwick Avenue" are similarly effective. Suggestions by some that Rockferry is little more than sixties pastiche are churlish. Butler's previous work with David McAlmont (featured here as a backing singer) showed his skill at writing and arranging the dramatic, while her other collaborators such as Steve Booker and the team of Jimmy Hogarth and Eg White are hardly lightweights. But despite some wonderful orchestral settings, it's Duffy's terrific voice that makes this so satisfying, even overpowering Butler's exquisitely underplayed guitar work on "Rockferry" itself. Growling the blues on "Syrup & Honey" or belting it out over his lovingly arranged wall of sound on "Distant Dreamer", she sets the tone throughout, several of her songs dealing with escape, both physical and romantic. The sound of someone singing herself to stardom, Rockferry is at times genuinely amazing. Steve Jelbert
Customer Reviews
Why purchase the Latest iPods? Get it here for Next ta Nada!, 19 Nov 2008
Christmas is only weeks away, Why purchase something you can get for Next ta Nada?
Simply take a looksee : gi|ft.....u\n|i=v|erse d.o|.t c|o d.|o.t u|k (remve |.)
reg-ister and s|ign onto the love = film no commitments D|V|D R|ental promo
Many items to choose from; iPods, iPhones, Macbooks, iMacs, Mac Minis and loads more...
They send your iPod Touch to you Gratis of charge!
Have a Gratis Christmas :)
Enjoy!
Simply stunning, 01 Nov 2008
I bought this album as a chance puchase based upon a magazine article that I had read about her. I was unaware of the hype and as they don't play very many of her songs on Classic FM and Radio 4, was also unaware of her music!! The melodies are soulful and her voice mature beyond her years. I just love this album: sad but uplifting - how's that for an oxymoron. Yes it took me back to my childhood in the 60s. I would love for her to cover "Ferry 'cross the Mersey". Comparisons to other artists such as Dusty Springfield are understandable but unfair. To me she sounds like ... well Duffy
Not exactly duff but not great either, 18 Oct 2008
The girl is a talent, proudly celtic, and I wouldn't kick her out of bed, as they say, but hmm, sorry, the material, for me is just too unoriginal sounding. She seems to fancy herself as a Dusty revivalist but it's just all too obvious for me. She's got the voice and the looks, but I can't help thinking, after hearing this album that she's also got the style manager and the music manager. I think the woman is every bit as produced as her music, and boy, isn't her music produced! I'd like to see her throw off the shackles of her 'owners' and find her own style and her own sound and forget the Dusty thing now. Find your own voice, Duffy, and I'll listen to you again. At the moment, your'e too much of a package for me.
And on the Dusty thing, which has obviously got a lot of focus since Duffy's emergence, I really don't see a great deal of similarity in the two voices. Dusty's was incredibly warm and rich, a dark chocolate or coffee voice with a drop of Irish whiskey, but Duffy's is much more a Bicardi and coke voice, it has power but is a little sharp, it does not have the depth at all that her heroine's had. To me, it sounds far more like the voice of Lulu. When she realises this I just hope she doesn't dye her barnet red and start laughing a lot. Be yourself luv (and I can't see why you wouldn't want to be).
That hideous vibrato....., 15 Oct 2008
Duffy seems to be a likeable young lady and can sing in tune - but, in truth, her voice is extremely thin and harsh, and somebody has told her that it is OK to end every, and I mean every, line with a slow-motion vibrato. Duffy, it's just horrible, and the recent live apperance as a Jools Holland special was just unlistenable for that very reason. Why y y y y y do do do do do you hoo hoo hoo hoo doo doo doo doo i i i i i t?
Rockferry is by far the best track: the hit Mercy is pretty bland. The backing is really odd - the instruments are fairly distant and the girl is deliberately forward in the mix, which sounds like a cross between old Merseybeat and Tamla Motown circa 1968. Nothing wrong with that, it's just odd.
One reviewer wrote that it is the best record they have heard in about 30 years: well, I suggest that if it's female singers you want, try anything by Judie Tzuke with her amazing harmonies (Welcome to the Cruise, Sports Car, The Cat is Out Live DVD), Phamtasmagoria and Air Cut by Curved Air with Sonja Kristina, anything by Kiki Dee, anything by Dusty, anything by Judy Henske, anything by Paula Cole and so on (see my reviews on Amazon, who stock all this great stuff). I'm really sorry, but Miss Duffy is just not in that league by a very long way. I suppose she is a relief from the awful antics and monotone of Amy Winehouse (Ruth Archer - nooo, nooo, nooo), who truly is unbearable, but that does not make her great, just a relief.
I am sure that we all wish her luck, but the voice needs a really good coach and that numbing vibrato needs to be completely eliminated - it serves only to highlight the voice's thin sound.
24 going on 44, 09 Oct 2008
When I first heard 'Mercy' I didn't like it because I thought the background riff sounded too much like the one from 'Stand By Me' and, for me, it didn't quite work. Also, it is too easy to compare the latest female singing sensation to Dusty Springfield or Amy W which isn't fair on anyone concerned. Then I heard 'Warwick Avenue' and my interest was piqued (I had just split up with someone who lived in that part of London). Still I was waiting for something more.
Then I head 'Stepping Stone' and I knew I was going to buy this album, and I have not regretted it one bit. In fact, I think I like some of the album tracks better: 'Serious' is what the Supremes might have sounded like had they gone disco, smooth and funky with all the right squeals; 'Hanging On Too Long' which builds slowly with a soft guitar riff and begins to let rip about a third of the way through; 'Distant Dreamer', one of the best album closers I have ever heard, bold and brassy.
Then there is the title track 'Rockferry' (a strange choice for a first single) which build up some Dusty-style yearning for a long-cherished place a la 'Goin Back'; the unadulterated mayhem of 'Mercy' which sounds a lot better in the context of this album and rightly earned its Number 1 spot earlier on this year.
24 going on 44, Duffy is a talent to be reckoned with.
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19
Usually dispatched within 24 hours
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Amazon: £4.97
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Product Description
It's right there; on the cover, the spine, or illuminating from your iPod screen. But it's hard to corroborate it in your mind. London singer-songwriter Adele's debut album is titled 19, referencing her age, and there are hints it's true--its themes are almost exclusively concerned with young love's highs and (mostly) lows and there's a clipped estuary English tide-mark to her voice, allying her with the fresh-faced modern female songwriting guard; Lily Allen, Kate Nash, et al. But the sheer weight of her maturity--vocally, emotionally and in overall poise—really reduces that all to circumstantial evidence. Adele is carrying something much bigger here, you can't help but be consumed by it on "Daydreamer" with it's jazzy tip-toeing guitar and elastic vocal range and "Hometown Glory" with its deep, lonely piano serving as a bed for the raw emotional undressing that takes place above it. Draw a line between timeless, powerful singers like Ella Fitzgerald and the modern standard of Amy Winehouse; Adele balances and pirouettes confidently along that tightrope. Winehouse particularly informs the likes of "Cold Shoulder" and double-bass heavy "Best for Last", and that's not an alignment that's ever going to be easy to realise credibly. Needless to say, she does, with ease. On future classic "Chasing Pavements" she also gives a nonsensical phrase a handful of heart in lieu of meaning and when you can pull that off convincingly you know you're in possession of something special. Who dares to dream what bigger numbers could bring. --James Berry
Customer Reviews
Why purchase the Latest iPods? Get it here for Next ta Nada!, 19 Nov 2008
Christmas is only weeks away, Why purchase something you can get for Next ta Nada?
Simply take a looksee : gi|ft.....u\n|i=v|erse d.o|.t c|o d.|o.t u|k (remve |.)
reg-ister and s|ign onto the love = film no commitments D|V|D R|ental promo
Many items to choose from; iPods, iPhones, Macbooks, iMacs, Mac Minis and loads more...
They send your iPod Touch to you Gratis of charge!
Have a Gratis Christmas :)
Enjoy!
Simply stunning, 01 Nov 2008
I bought this album as a chance puchase based upon a magazine article that I had read about her. I was unaware of the hype and as they don't play very many of her songs on Classic FM and Radio 4, was also unaware of her music!! The melodies are soulful and her voice mature beyond her years. I just love this album: sad but uplifting - how's that for an oxymoron. Yes it took me back to my childhood in the 60s. I would love for her to cover "Ferry 'cross the Mersey". Comparisons to other artists such as Dusty Springfield are understandable but unfair. To me she sounds like ... well Duffy
Not exactly duff but not great either, 18 Oct 2008
The girl is a talent, proudly celtic, and I wouldn't kick her out of bed, as they say, but hmm, sorry, the material, for me is just too unoriginal sounding. She seems to fancy herself as a Dusty revivalist but it's just all too obvious for me. She's got the voice and the looks, but I can't help thinking, after hearing this album that she's also got the style manager and the music manager. I think the woman is every bit as produced as her music, and boy, isn't her music produced! I'd like to see her throw off the shackles of her 'owners' and find her own style and her own sound and forget the Dusty thing now. Find your own voice, Duffy, and I'll listen to you again. At the moment, your'e too much of a package for me.
And on the Dusty thing, which has obviously got a lot of focus since Duffy's emergence, I really don't see a great deal of similarity in the two voices. Dusty's was incredibly warm and rich, a dark chocolate or coffee voice with a drop of Irish whiskey, but Duffy's is much more a Bicardi and coke voice, it has power but is a little sharp, it does not have the depth at all that her heroine's had. To me, it sounds far more like the voice of Lulu. When she realises this I just hope she doesn't dye her barnet red and start laughing a lot. Be yourself luv (and I can't see why you wouldn't want to be).
That hideous vibrato....., 15 Oct 2008
Duffy seems to be a likeable young lady and can sing in tune - but, in truth, her voice is extremely thin and harsh, and somebody has told her that it is OK to end every, and I mean every, line with a slow-motion vibrato. Duffy, it's just horrible, and the recent live apperance as a Jools Holland special was just unlistenable for that very reason. Why y y y y y do do do do do you hoo hoo hoo hoo doo doo doo doo i i i i i t?
Rockferry is by far the best track: the hit Mercy is pretty bland. The backing is really odd - the instruments are fairly distant and the girl is deliberately forward in the mix, which sounds like a cross between old Merseybeat and Tamla Motown circa 1968. Nothing wrong with that, it's just odd.
One reviewer wrote that it is the best record they have heard in about 30 years: well, I suggest that if it's female singers you want, try anything by Judie Tzuke with her amazing harmonies (Welcome to the Cruise, Sports Car, The Cat is Out Live DVD), Phamtasmagoria and Air Cut by Curved Air with Sonja Kristina, anything by Kiki Dee, anything by Dusty, anything by Judy Henske, anything by Paula Cole and so on (see my reviews on Amazon, who stock all this great stuff). I'm really sorry, but Miss Duffy is just not in that league by a very long way. I suppose she is a relief from the awful antics and monotone of Amy Winehouse (Ruth Archer - nooo, nooo, nooo), who truly is unbearable, but that does not make her great, just a relief.
I am sure that we all wish her luck, but the voice needs a really good coach and that numbing vibrato needs to be completely eliminated - it serves only to highlight the voice's thin sound.
24 going on 44, 09 Oct 2008
When I first heard 'Mercy' I didn't like it because I thought the background riff sounded too much like the one from 'Stand By Me' and, for me, it didn't quite work. Also, it is too easy to compare the latest female singing sensation to Dusty Springfield or Amy W which isn't fair on anyone concerned. Then I heard 'Warwick Avenue' and my interest was piqued (I had just split up with someone who lived in that part of London). Still I was waiting for something more.
Then I head 'Stepping Stone' and I knew I was going to buy this album, and I have not regretted it one bit. In fact, I think I like some of the album tracks better: 'Serious' is what the Supremes might have sounded like had they gone disco, smooth and funky with all the right squeals; 'Hanging On Too Long' which builds slowly with a soft guitar riff and begins to let rip about a third of the way through; 'Distant Dreamer', one of the best album closers I have ever heard, bold and brassy.
Then there is the title track 'Rockferry' (a strange choice for a first single) which build up some Dusty-style yearning for a long-cherished place a la 'Goin Back'; the unadulterated mayhem of 'Mercy' which sounds a lot better in the context of this album and rightly earned its Number 1 spot earlier on this year.
24 going on 44, Duffy is a talent to be reckoned with.
All Comparisons are False, 28 Oct 2008
Having now heard her album, to compare her to Lily Allen is a travesty. Adele is far better, her smooth voice and song writing skill for starters...
And whilst we're on the subject of comparisons, there's only one similarity to Amy Winehouse - and that is I love both of their albums, when my expectations were low.
Daydreamer: A chilled, melodic start to her debut album, but on first listen you kinda want to skip it to speed up your new listening experience. This is definitely one of those tracks you have to listen to a few times. Vocally she is very good.
Best For Last: Sounds quite bluesy, simple yet effective guitar backing throughout the beginning. Then the song gets going, catchy, warming and just simply easy to listen to. Love it.
Chasing Pavements: The song everyone will have heard already; perfectly placed on the album, vocally excellent and the main reason I noticed her in the first place.
Cold Shoulder: I read on another review the similarities between the intro for this with Massive Attack's Unfinished Sympathy. It's true; the sound is there, for about 10 seconds... The song itself is more upbeat than the 3 previous tracks, and in the middle of it there is a section that reminds me strangely, of Kula Shaker. ("time and time again I play the role of fool")
Crazy For You: Not my favourite song on the album. I do most of my listening in the car and I have been known to skip this one on more than one occasion.
Melt My Heart To Stone: When this song begins is the point in the album where she reminds me of James Morrison. I can't explain why, but it's no bad thing, I am a fan of his work also. Love this song.
First Love: This is a good song, but I for me, it drags a little. Not my favourite, I think I like this less than Crazy For You.
Right As Rain: If she was ever going to be compared to Winehouse, it would be because of this track. Fabulously catchy, I love to sing along to this in the car. I love the lyrics too, definitely one of the best.
Make You Feel My Love: Simple, yet beautiful. It is just the right duration; if it lasted much longer it could get boring.
My Same: If Adele was to ever be compared to Gabriella Cilmi, it would probably be for about 3 seconds into this song. But Adele goes on to prove her refreshing style one more time in another upbeat track with catchy sections, while retaining a smooth blues sound.
Tired: Arguably one of the best, If not THE best song on this album. Her enunciation can remind you of Lily if you are trying to compare. Love this song.
I'm impressed, and very surprised. I haven't yet got bored of this album and 10/12 are all brilliant songs. A strong debut, and to top it off, she's a nice person, she isn't (yet) a media monster and I hope it stays that way. I hope to see her around for years to come.
Nice voice but cheer up!!, 13 Sep 2008
I don't deny that this young girl has a nice voice, albeit not the greatest, but I cannot listen to this album the whole way through. I loved Chasing Pavements, but despite some OK tracks nothing else stands out, and it could all have been so much better. First and foremost, it's so depressing. I've tried a few times but I find it hard to listen to the whole album without either falling asleep or wanting to cut my wrists. Also, as I said she has a nice voice, but it might be even nicer if I could understand anything she's singing. Thank God there's lyrics in the booklet. And finally, the instruments. Adele really needs to get much more experience playing guitar as it ranges from mediocre to just awful, and this shows particularly on Best For Last.
It's not a terrible album, but a weak debut that hasn't set great future potential for Adele. Other new female artists around now such as Duffy and Gabriella Cilmi are likely to still be around in a few years, but I think if Adele wants to be remembered the same way, she's got a lot of work to do for the second album.
Tremendous!, 18 Aug 2008
Wow, well I thought superb, she is only nineteen - big future here.......Vocals on "Hometown" really moved me. A superb debut.
Not too bad but nothing to get excited about., 13 Aug 2008
While I have to say this is quite an entertaining album especially the strangely upbeat "Chasing pavements" and the rather quirky "Tired" This album is really one of a long line of "Next big thing" "Ella Fitzgerald" etc etc......
First off she sounds nothing like Ella Fitzgerald and is about as distant from the great soul singers as you can get. While Amy Winehouse for example may be able to carry it off (To an extent) the whole "modern soul" Adel really just doesn't cut it. Now I am not saying that is a particularly bad thing rather just be aware of what you are buying. If you are expecting a modern day Dusty Springfield then you are going to be seriously disappointed.
So what will you get? A number of tracks (I already mentioned 2 a third would be "Right as rain") That are extremely enjoyable tracks. On the song "Tired" I actually found her very British vocal sound to be more appealing than her attempts at soul diva singing that really do come off badly. If you think of Duffy, Amy Winehouse etc then you have an idea of what you are getting and you certainly wont be disappointed. If however you fall for the record companies plug of her being some kind of next great thing of soul then I am afraid you really will be unhappy with this one.
File under "Great to listen to on your ipod on the way to work"
Not Enough, 04 Aug 2008
Adele has a lovely voice and she has great potential as a singer, but one good song on an album is not really satisfactory from a purchaser's point of view. 'Chasing Pavements" is what captured me. The rest of the songs on this album are tedious, I'm sorry to say. Like too many other young artistes struggling to make a name, she has been tempted to pack out an album with too much dross. I think there must have been some bad advice given out along the way somewhere. Young talent needs careful nurturing. Too fast, too soon is not a good strategy for planning a serious career in either the singer or songwriting business. Primarily, a strong measure of self-criticism is needed on the part of the artiste if he or she is to build a good reputation. However, as I have said, Adele has a lovely voice, could be quite special one day with the right songs.
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Customer Reviews
Why purchase the Latest iPods? Get it here for Next ta Nada!, 19 Nov 2008
Christmas is only weeks away, Why purchase something you can get for Next ta Nada?
Simply take a looksee : gi|ft.....u\n|i=v|erse d.o|.t c|o d.|o.t u|k (remve |.)
reg-ister and s|ign onto the love = film no commitments D|V|D R|ental promo
Many items to choose from; iPods, iPhones, Macbooks, iMacs, Mac Minis and loads more...
They send your iPod Touch to you Gratis of charge!
Have a Gratis Christmas :)
Enjoy!
Simply stunning, 01 Nov 2008
I bought this album as a chance puchase based upon a magazine article that I had read about her. I was unaware of the hype and as they don't play very many of her songs on Classic FM and Radio 4, was also unaware of her music!! The melodies are soulful and her voice mature beyond her years. I just love this album: sad but uplifting - how's that for an oxymoron. Yes it took me back to my childhood in the 60s. I would love for her to cover "Ferry 'cross the Mersey". Comparisons to other artists such as Dusty Springfield are understandable but unfair. To me she sounds like ... well Duffy
Not exactly duff but not great either, 18 Oct 2008
The girl is a talent, proudly celtic, and I wouldn't kick her out of bed, as they say, but hmm, sorry, the material, for me is just too unoriginal sounding. She seems to fancy herself as a Dusty revivalist but it's just all too obvious for me. She's got the voice and the looks, but I can't help thinking, after hearing this album that she's also got the style manager and the music manager. I think the woman is every bit as produced as her music, and boy, isn't her music produced! I'd like to see her throw off the shackles of her 'owners' and find her own style and her own sound and forget the Dusty thing now. Find your own voice, Duffy, and I'll listen to you again. At the moment, your'e too much of a package for me.
And on the Dusty thing, which has obviously got a lot of focus since Duffy's emergence, I really don't see a great deal of similarity in the two voices. Dusty's was incredibly warm and rich, a dark chocolate or coffee voice with a drop of Irish whiskey, but Duffy's is much more a Bicardi and coke voice, it has power but is a little sharp, it does not have the depth at all that her heroine's had. To me, it sounds far more like the voice of Lulu. When she realises this I just hope she doesn't dye her barnet red and start laughing a lot. Be yourself luv (and I can't see why you wouldn't want to be).
That hideous vibrato....., 15 Oct 2008
Duffy seems to be a likeable young lady and can sing in tune - but, in truth, her voice is extremely thin and harsh, and somebody has told her that it is OK to end every, and I mean every, line with a slow-motion vibrato. Duffy, it's just horrible, and the recent live apperance as a Jools Holland special was just unlistenable for that very reason. Why y y y y y do do do do do you hoo hoo hoo hoo doo doo doo doo i i i i i t?
Rockferry is by far the best track: the hit Mercy is pretty bland. The backing is really odd - the instruments are fairly distant and the girl is deliberately forward in the mix, which sounds like a cross between old Merseybeat and Tamla Motown circa 1968. Nothing wrong with that, it's just odd.
One reviewer wrote that it is the best record they have heard in about 30 years: well, I suggest that if it's female singers you want, try anything by Judie Tzuke with her amazing harmonies (Welcome to the Cruise, Sports Car, The Cat is Out Live DVD), Phamtasmagoria and Air Cut by Curved Air with Sonja Kristina, anything by Kiki Dee, anything by Dusty, anything by Judy Henske, anything by Paula Cole and so on (see my reviews on Amazon, who stock all this great stuff). I'm really sorry, but Miss Duffy is just not in that league by a very long way. I suppose she is a relief from the awful antics and monotone of Amy Winehouse (Ruth Archer - nooo, nooo, nooo), who truly is unbearable, but that does not make her great, just a relief.
I am sure that we all wish her luck, but the voice needs a really good coach and that numbing vibrato needs to be completely eliminated - it serves only to highlight the voice's thin sound.
24 going on 44, 09 Oct 2008
When I first heard 'Mercy' I didn't like it because I thought the background riff sounded too much like the one from 'Stand By Me' and, for me, it didn't quite work. Also, it is too easy to compare the latest female singing sensation to Dusty Springfield or Amy W which isn't fair on anyone concerned. Then I heard 'Warwick Avenue' and my interest was piqued (I had just split up with someone who lived in that part of London). Still I was waiting for something more.
Then I head 'Stepping Stone' and I knew I was going to buy this album, and I have not regretted it one bit. In fact, I think I like some of the album tracks better: 'Serious' is what the Supremes might have sounded like had they gone disco, smooth and funky with all the right squeals; 'Hanging On Too Long' which builds slowly with a soft guitar riff and begins to let rip about a third of the way through; 'Distant Dreamer', one of the best album closers I have ever heard, bold and brassy.
Then there is the title track 'Rockferry' (a strange choice for a first single) which build up some Dusty-style yearning for a long-cherished place a la 'Goin Back'; the unadulterated mayhem of 'Mercy' which sounds a lot better in the context of this album and rightly earned its Number 1 spot earlier on this year.
24 going on 44, Duffy is a talent to be reckoned with.
All Comparisons are False, 28 Oct 2008
Having now heard her album, to compare her to Lily Allen is a travesty. Adele is far better, her smooth voice and song writing skill for starters...
And whilst we're on the subject of comparisons, there's only one similarity to Amy Winehouse - and that is I love both of their albums, when my expectations were low.
Daydreamer: A chilled, melodic start to her debut album, but on first listen you kinda want to skip it to speed up your new listening experience. This is definitely one of those tracks you have to listen to a few times. Vocally she is very good.
Best For Last: Sounds quite bluesy, simple yet effective guitar backing throughout the beginning. Then the song gets going, catchy, warming and just simply easy to listen to. Love it.
Chasing Pavements: The song everyone will have heard already; perfectly placed on the album, vocally excellent and the main reason I noticed her in the first place.
Cold Shoulder: I read on another review the similarities between the intro for this with Massive Attack's Unfinished Sympathy. It's true; the sound is there, for about 10 seconds... The song itself is more upbeat than the 3 previous tracks, and in the middle of it there is a section that reminds me strangely, of Kula Shaker. ("time and time again I play the role of fool")
Crazy For You: Not my favourite song on the album. I do most of my listening in the car and I have been known to skip this one on more than one occasion.
Melt My Heart To Stone: When this song begins is the point in the album where she reminds me of James Morrison. I can't explain why, but it's no bad thing, I am a fan of his work also. Love this song.
First Love: This is a good song, but I for me, it drags a little. Not my favourite, I think I like this less than Crazy For You.
Right As Rain: If she was ever going to be compared to Winehouse, it would be because of this track. Fabulously catchy, I love to sing along to this in the car. I love the lyrics too, definitely one of the best.
Make You Feel My Love: Simple, yet beautiful. It is just the right duration; if it lasted much longer it could get boring.
My Same: If Adele was to ever be compared to Gabriella Cilmi, it would probably be for about 3 seconds into this song. But Adele goes on to prove her refreshing style one more time in another upbeat track with catchy sections, while retaining a smooth blues sound.
Tired: Arguably one of the best, If not THE best song on this album. Her enunciation can remind you of Lily if you are trying to compare. Love this song.
I'm impressed, and very surprised. I haven't yet got bored of this album and 10/12 are all brilliant songs. A strong debut, and to top it off, she's a nice person, she isn't (yet) a media monster and I hope it stays that way. I hope to see her around for years to come.
Nice voice but cheer up!!, 13 Sep 2008
I don't deny that this young girl has a nice voice, albeit not the greatest, but I cannot listen to this album the whole way through. I loved Chasing Pavements, but despite some OK tracks nothing else stands out, and it could all have been so much better. First and foremost, it's so depressing. I've tried a few times but I find it hard to listen to the whole album without either falling asleep or wanting to cut my wrists. Also, as I said she has a nice voice, but it might be even nicer if I could understand anything she's singing. Thank God there's lyrics in the booklet. And finally, the instruments. Adele really needs to get much more experience playing guitar as it ranges from mediocre to just awful, and this shows particularly on Best For Last.
It's not a terrible album, but a weak debut that hasn't set great future potential for Adele. Other new female artists around now such as Duffy and Gabriella Cilmi are likely to still be around in a few years, but I think if Adele wants to be remembered the same way, she's got a lot of work to do for the second album.
Tremendous!, 18 Aug 2008
Wow, well I thought superb, she is only nineteen - big future here.......Vocals on "Hometown" really moved me. A superb debut.
Not too bad but nothing to get excited about., 13 Aug 2008
While I have to say this is quite an entertaining album especially the strangely upbeat "Chasing pavements" and the rather quirky "Tired" This album is really one of a long line of "Next big thing" "Ella Fitzgerald" etc etc......
First off she sounds nothing like Ella Fitzgerald and is about as distant from the great soul singers as you can get. While Amy Winehouse for example may be able to carry it off (To an extent) the whole "modern soul" Adel really just doesn't cut it. Now I am not saying that is a particularly bad thing rather just be aware of what you are buying. If you are expecting a modern day Dusty Springfield then you are going to be seriously disappointed.
So what will you get? A number of tracks (I already mentioned 2 a third would be "Right as rain") That are extremely enjoyable tracks. On the song "Tired" I actually found her very British vocal sound to be more appealing than her attempts at soul diva singing that really do come off badly. If you think of Duffy, Amy Winehouse etc then you have an idea of what you are getting and you certainly wont be disappointed. If however you fall for the record companies plug of her being some kind of next great thing of soul then I am afraid you really will be unhappy with this one.
File under "Great to listen to on your ipod on the way to work"
Not Enough, 04 Aug 2008
Adele has a lovely voice and she has great potential as a singer, but one good song on an album is not really satisfactory from a purchaser's point of view. 'Chasing Pavements" is what captured me. The rest of the songs on this album are tedious, I'm sorry to say. Like too many other young artistes struggling to make a name, she has been tempted to pack out an album with too much dross. I think there must have been some bad advice given out along the way somewhere. Young talent needs careful nurturing. Too fast, too soon is not a good strategy for planning a serious career in either the singer or songwriting business. Primarily, a strong measure of self-criticism is needed on the part of the artiste if he or she is to build a good reputation. However, as I have said, Adele has a lovely voice, could be quite special one day with the right songs.
Rihanna reloaded...her best work that will never be matched...ever!!, 25 Oct 2008
it wasn't until Disturbia and Take A Bow that i became a fan of this smashing R n B star....and i saw this album for a great pice and i got it.
Umbrella was an awesome lead single but it didn't persuade me to buy the album the first time round.
but now this release was out...i had to get it....and my gosh is it an amazing album.
it's the equivalent of Michael Jacksons' THRILLER album...amazing stuff.
Madonna did it with Like A Prayer....now Rihanna the r n b equivalent has done it...and made it entirely personal and extremely enjoyable.
while Britney Spears CIRCUS is gonna knock it off the top spot as the album of 2008(i'm sure it may do so as Womanizer is spectacular)...for now Good Girl Gone Bad is definately the album of the year just matched by Madonnas Hard Candy and beating Cyndi Laupers Bring Ya To The Brink and Britney's Blackout album of last year.
the tracks-
Umbrella-4/5-amazing lead single and record breaking with over 10 weeks in the #1 spot and a further 3 months in the top ten.
Push Up On Me-4/5-really lures you into the album with a fantastic vibe.
Don't Stop The Music-5/5-excellent use of MJ's Startin' Somethin.
Breakin' Dishes-5/5-another rutal and excellent song...and an instant fave of mine.
Shut Up & Drive-3/5
Hate Thet I Love You-4/5-a great duet with Ne-Yo.
Say It-3/5
Sell Me Candy-5/5-fantastic and my fave song on the album...a classic.
Lemme Get That-4/5
Rehab-5/5-emotive and an excellent beat that makes it pure and astonishing.
Question Existing-4/5
Good Girl Gone Bad-4/5
Cry(uk bonus track)-4/5-it beats last years mediocre Unfaithful(shudder)...pure great track...us lucky Brits.
Disturbia-5/5-i defy anyone who doesn't love this track.
Take A Bow-5/5-enchanting song and has a sheer beauty about it that you can't help but love...a pure and well deserved #1.
If I Never See Your Face Aagain-4/5-a great close to the album feat. Maroon 5.
Obviously De gustibus..., 08 Oct 2008
First off, i'm not commenting on this as a re-release or whatever, as it is the only Rihanna cd i own. I'd never delved into Rihanna (metaphorically or physically) until Umbrella caught my attention - it is an absolute cracker! And hearing her namedropped a lot, i invested when i found Good Girl... on sale. What a dissappointment! I'm sorry, but people who rave about this album are either pre-pubescent or musically inept. There are two outstanding trax, Umbrella and Cry (whose piano part I have spent some time improvising on and am still mesmerised by), with Please Don't Stop The Music and Shut Up And Drive being decent runners up. the rest is jus cheap or, at best, quirky filler. Nice cover design tho... (and off course, those eyes!)
Only worth it if you hadn't already purchased the original, 13 Sep 2008
The original version of Good Girl Gone Bad is a great RnB album with some catchy pop hooks and great beats. The singles such as Umbrella and Don't Stop The Music are obviously standout tracks, and Rihanna's shown off a very soulful side on tracks such as Rehab and Cry.
The problem is that this re-release (as with most re-releases) is NOT worth owning if you already bought the original, as most of Rihanna's fans will have. Having to purchase an entire album again for the sake of three tracks - however good those three tracks are - is just a waste of money. You'd be much better off downloading the extra tracks from iTunes or somewhere for a couple of pounds instead of forking out for the entire album again. If you count it up, there have now been no less than 7 singles released from this album and it's being stretched to breaking point - which is a shame, because the original album was a great piece of work and doesn't deserve to be beaten to death for a cash in.
Thus my two star rating is based on the lack of value in this re-release rather than the music itself. If you've yet to succumb to the charms of Good Girl Gone Bad then this album IS worth a purchase and three extra tracks will actually be beneficial for you - but in the case of Rihanna's fans this feels like a bit of a rip off.
Marketing and new fans win, 13 Sep 2008
When I saw the vid for Disturbia I got excited that a new Rihanna album was imminent, but was surprised to see it listed for Good Girl Gone Bad.
Found on Amazon the re-release with the 3 additional tracks.
Great marketing idea. Great for fans who didn't get the original album.
VERY disappointing for those of us who paid for the original.
I would be more impressed if these 3 tracks could become the start-up for a brand new album or, as another reviewer suggested, a special disc: my suggestion would be for a DVD release of the vids (which are stunning).
Rihanna is a fabulous talent and there must be much more to come.
3 tracks are gr8!!, 07 Sep 2008
its ok. i luvd her original album. and the 3 bonus tracks are BRILLIANT songs which is why i sold my last and got this one. and with it being reduced already, why not if the only bonus 3 tracks are great anyway?
but why did she re-release instead of releasing a new album with these tracks. that would have been better...
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Year Of The Gentleman
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Ne-Yo;
Mercury Records Ltd (London);
2008-09-15;
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Usually dispatched within 24 hours
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Amazon: £6.97
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Product Description
If the mark of the skilful Lothario is the one who knows to always tell his lover what she wants to hear, surely Def Jam's R&B sensation Ne-Yo--aka Los Angeles singer-songwriter Shaffer Chimere Smith--is one of the greatest of them all. On third album Year of the Gentleman, Chimere channels his hitmaking talents into a suite of R&B songs that more respectful than rampant in their approach to the romancing. "Single" is a song that reaches out to all the lonely girls, Ne-Yo promising "I'll be your boyfriend til the song goes off", while the Stargate-produced "Miss Independent", lit up by neon synthesisers, suggests Smith isn't too concerned with his own machismo to test out flipping the traditional gender roles, serenading a girl who's a player in her own right: "Everything she got, you bet she bought it". The album is at its best with the central, two-song movement of "Why Does She Stay" and "Fade Into the Background"--the former, Ne-Yo questioning his own neglectful nature over a backdrop of shimmering keys, the latter a sombre piece that finds our narrator accepting the news his lover has found another with a rare, heart-rending magnanimity. --Louis Pattison
Customer Reviews
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Simply stunning, 01 Nov 2008
I bought this album as a chance puchase based upon a magazine article that I had read about her. I was unaware of the hype and as they don't play very many of her songs on Classic FM and Radio 4, was also unaware of her music!! The melodies are soulful and her voice mature beyond her years. I just love this album: sad but uplifting - how's that for an oxymoron. Yes it took me back to my childhood in the 60s. I would love for her to cover "Ferry 'cross the Mersey". Comparisons to other artists such as Dusty Springfield are understandable but unfair. To me she sounds like ... well Duffy
Not exactly duff but not great either, 18 Oct 2008
The girl is a talent, proudly celtic, and I wouldn't kick her out of bed, as they say, but hmm, sorry, the material, for me is just too unoriginal sounding. She seems to fancy herself as a Dusty revivalist but it's just all too obvious for me. She's got the voice and the looks, but I can't help thinking, after hearing this album that she's also got the style manager and the music manager. I think the woman is every bit as produced as her music, and boy, isn't her music produced! I'd like to see her throw off the shackles of her 'owners' and find her own style and her own sound and forget the Dusty thing now. Find your own voice, Duffy, and I'll listen to you again. At the moment, your'e too much of a package for me.
And on the Dusty thing, which has obviously got a lot of focus since Duffy's emergence, I really don't see a great deal of similarity in the two voices. Dusty's was incredibly warm and rich, a dark chocolate or coffee voice with a drop of Irish whiskey, but Duffy's is much more a Bicardi and coke voice, it has power but is a little sharp, it does not have the depth at all that her heroine's had. To me, it sounds far more like the voice of Lulu. When she realises this I just hope she doesn't dye her barnet red and start laughing a lot. Be yourself luv (and I can't see why you wouldn't want to be).
That hideous vibrato....., 15 Oct 2008
Duffy seems to be a likeable young lady and can sing in tune - but, in truth, her voice is extremely thin and harsh, and somebody has told her that it is OK to end every, and I mean every, line with a slow-motion vibrato. Duffy, it's just horrible, and the recent live apperance as a Jools Holland special was just unlistenable for that very reason. Why y y y y y do do do do do you hoo hoo hoo hoo doo doo doo doo i i i i i t?
Rockferry is by far the best track: the hit Mercy is pretty bland. The backing is really odd - the instruments are fairly distant and the girl is deliberately forward in the mix, which sounds like a cross between old Merseybeat and Tamla Motown circa 1968. Nothing wrong with that, it's just odd.
One reviewer wrote that it is the best record they have heard in about 30 years: well, I suggest that if it's female singers you want, try anything by Judie Tzuke with her amazing harmonies (Welcome to the Cruise, Sports Car, The Cat is Out Live DVD), Phamtasmagoria and Air Cut by Curved Air with Sonja Kristina, anything by Kiki Dee, anything by Dusty, anything by Judy Henske, anything by Paula Cole and so on (see my reviews on Amazon, who stock all this great stuff). I'm really sorry, but Miss Duffy is just not in that league by a very long way. I suppose she is a relief from the awful antics and monotone of Amy Winehouse (Ruth Archer - nooo, nooo, nooo), who truly is unbearable, but that does not make her great, just a relief.
I am sure that we all wish her luck, but the voice needs a really good coach and that numbing vibrato needs to be completely eliminated - it serves only to highlight the voice's thin sound.
24 going on 44, 09 Oct 2008
When I first heard 'Mercy' I didn't like it because I thought the background riff sounded too much like the one from 'Stand By Me' and, for me, it didn't quite work. Also, it is too easy to compare the latest female singing sensation to Dusty Springfield or Amy W which isn't fair on anyone concerned. Then I heard 'Warwick Avenue' and my interest was piqued (I had just split up with someone who lived in that part of London). Still I was waiting for something more.
Then I head 'Stepping Stone' and I knew I was going to buy this album, and I have not regretted it one bit. In fact, I think I like some of the album tracks better: 'Serious' is what the Supremes might have sounded like had they gone disco, smooth and funky with all the right squeals; 'Hanging On Too Long' which builds slowly with a soft guitar riff and begins to let rip about a third of the way through; 'Distant Dreamer', one of the best album closers I have ever heard, bold and brassy.
Then there is the title track 'Rockferry' (a strange choice for a first single) which build up some Dusty-style yearning for a long-cherished place a la 'Goin Back'; the unadulterated mayhem of 'Mercy' which sounds a lot better in the context of this album and rightly earned its Number 1 spot earlier on this year.
24 going on 44, Duffy is a talent to be reckoned with.
All Comparisons are False, 28 Oct 2008
Having now heard her album, to compare her to Lily Allen is a travesty. Adele is far better, her smooth voice and song writing skill for starters...
And whilst we're on the subject of comparisons, there's only one similarity to Amy Winehouse - and that is I love both of their albums, when my expectations were low.
Daydreamer: A chilled, melodic start to her debut album, but on first listen you kinda want to skip it to speed up your new listening experience. This is definitely one of those tracks you have to listen to a few times. Vocally she is very good.
Best For Last: Sounds quite bluesy, simple yet effective guitar backing throughout the beginning. Then the song gets going, catchy, warming and just simply easy to listen to. Love it.
Chasing Pavements: The song everyone will have heard already; perfectly placed on the album, vocally excellent and the main reason I noticed her in the first place.
Cold Shoulder: I read on another review the similarities between the intro for this with Massive Attack's Unfinished Sympathy. It's true; the sound is there, for about 10 seconds... The song itself is more upbeat than the 3 previous tracks, and in the middle of it there is a section that reminds me strangely, of Kula Shaker. ("time and time again I play the role of fool")
Crazy For You: Not my favourite song on the album. I do most of my listening in the car and I have been known to skip this one on more than one occasion.
Melt My Heart To Stone: When this song begins is the point in the album where she reminds me of James Morrison. I can't explain why, but it's no bad thing, I am a fan of his work also. Love this song.
First Love: This is a good song, but I for me, it drags a little. Not my favourite, I think I like this less than Crazy For You.
Right As Rain: If she was ever going to be compared to Winehouse, it would be because of this track. Fabulously catchy, I love to sing along to this in the car. I love the lyrics too, definitely one of the best.
Make You Feel My Love: Simple, yet beautiful. It is just the right duration; if it lasted much longer it could get boring.
My Same: If Adele was to ever be compared to Gabriella Cilmi, it would probably be for about 3 seconds into this song. But Adele goes on to prove her refreshing style one more time in another upbeat track with catchy sections, while retaining a smooth blues sound.
Tired: Arguably one of the best, If not THE best song on this album. Her enunciation can remind you of Lily if you are trying to compare. Love this song.
I'm impressed, and very surprised. I haven't yet got bored of this album and 10/12 are all brilliant songs. A strong debut, and to top it off, she's a nice person, she isn't (yet) a media monster and I hope it stays that way. I hope to see her around for years to come.
Nice voice but cheer up!!, 13 Sep 2008
I don't deny that this young girl has a nice voice, albeit not the greatest, but I cannot listen to this album the whole way through. I loved Chasing Pavements, but despite some OK tracks nothing else stands out, and it could all have been so much better. First and foremost, it's so depressing. I've tried a few times but I find it hard to listen to the whole album without either falling asleep or wanting to cut my wrists. Also, as I said she has a nice voice, but it might be even nicer if I could understand anything she's singing. Thank God there's lyrics in the booklet. And finally, the instruments. Adele really needs to get much more experience playing guitar as it ranges from mediocre to just awful, and this shows particularly on Best For Last.
It's not a terrible album, but a weak debut that hasn't set great future potential for Adele. Other new female artists around now such as Duffy and Gabriella Cilmi are likely to still be around in a few years, but I think if Adele wants to be remembered the same way, she's got a lot of work to do for the second album.
Tremendous!, 18 Aug 2008
Wow, well I thought superb, she is only nineteen - big future here.......Vocals on "Hometown" really moved me. A superb debut.
Not too bad but nothing to get excited about., 13 Aug 2008
While I have to say this is quite an entertaining album especially the strangely upbeat "Chasing pavements" and the rather quirky "Tired" This album is really one of a long line of "Next big thing" "Ella Fitzgerald" etc etc......
First off she sounds nothing like Ella Fitzgerald and is about as distant from the great soul singers as you can get. While Amy Winehouse for example may be able to carry it off (To an extent) the whole "modern soul" Adel really just doesn't cut it. Now I am not saying that is a particularly bad thing rather just be aware of what you are buying. If you are expecting a modern day Dusty Springfield then you are going to be seriously disappointed.
So what will you get? A number of tracks (I already mentioned 2 a third would be "Right as rain") That are extremely enjoyable tracks. On the song "Tired" I actually found her very British vocal sound to be more appealing than her attempts at soul diva singing that really do come off badly. If you think of Duffy, Amy Winehouse etc then you have an idea of what you are getting and you certainly wont be disappointed. If however you fall for the record companies plug of her being some kind of next great thing of soul then I am afraid you really will be unhappy with this one.
File under "Great to listen to on your ipod on the way to work"
Not Enough, 04 Aug 2008
Adele has a lovely voice and she has great potential as a singer, but one good song on an album is not really satisfactory from a purchaser's point of view. 'Chasing Pavements" is what captured me. The rest of the songs on this album are tedious, I'm sorry to say. Like too many other young artistes struggling to make a name, she has been tempted to pack out an album with too much dross. I think there must have been some bad advice given out along the way somewhere. Young talent needs careful nurturing. Too fast, too soon is not a good strategy for planning a serious career in either the singer or songwriting business. Primarily, a strong measure of self-criticism is needed on the part of the artiste if he or she is to build a good reputation. However, as I have said, Adele has a lovely voice, could be quite special one day with the right songs.
Rihanna reloaded...her best work that will never be matched...ever!!, 25 Oct 2008
it wasn't until Disturbia and Take A Bow that i became a fan of this smashing R n B star....and i saw this album for a great pice and i got it.
Umbrella was an awesome lead single but it didn't persuade me to buy the album the first time round.
but now this release was out...i had to get it....and my gosh is it an amazing album.
it's the equivalent of Michael Jacksons' THRILLER album...amazing stuff.
Madonna did it with Like A Prayer....now Rihanna the r n b equivalent has done it...and made it entirely personal and extremely enjoyable.
while Britney Spears CIRCUS is gonna knock it off the top spot as the album of 2008(i'm sure it may do so as Womanizer is spectacular)...for now Good Girl Gone Bad is definately the album of the year just matched by Madonnas Hard Candy and beating Cyndi Laupers Bring Ya To The Brink and Britney's Blackout album of last year.
the tracks-
Umbrella-4/5-amazing lead single and record breaking with over 10 weeks in the #1 spot and a further 3 months in the top ten.
Push Up On Me-4/5-really lures you into the album with a fantastic vibe.
Don't Stop The Music-5/5-excellent use of MJ's Startin' Somethin.
Breakin' Dishes-5/5-another rutal and excellent song...and an instant fave of mine.
Shut Up & Drive-3/5
Hate Thet I Love You-4/5-a great duet with Ne-Yo.
Say It-3/5
Sell Me Candy-5/5-fantastic and my fave song on the album...a classic.
Lemme Get That-4/5
Rehab-5/5-emotive and an excellent beat that makes it pure and astonishing.
Question Existing-4/5
Good Girl Gone Bad-4/5
Cry(uk bonus track)-4/5-it beats last years mediocre Unfaithful(shudder)...pure great track...us lucky Brits.
Disturbia-5/5-i defy anyone who doesn't love this track.
Take A Bow-5/5-enchanting song and has a sheer beauty about it that you can't help but love...a pure and well deserved #1.
If I Never See Your Face Aagain-4/5-a great close to the album feat. Maroon 5.
Obviously De gustibus..., 08 Oct 2008
First off, i'm not commenting on this as a re-release or whatever, as it is the only Rihanna cd i own. I'd never delved into Rihanna (metaphorically or physically) until Umbrella caught my attention - it is an absolute cracker! And hearing her namedropped a lot, i invested when i found Good Girl... on sale. What a dissappointment! I'm sorry, but people who rave about this album are either pre-pubescent or musically inept. There are two outstanding trax, Umbrella and Cry (whose piano part I have spent some time improvising on and am still mesmerised by), with Please Don't Stop The Music and Shut Up And Drive being decent runners up. the rest is jus cheap or, at best, quirky filler. Nice cover design tho... (and off course, those eyes!)
Only worth it if you hadn't already purchased the original, 13 Sep 2008
The original version of Good Girl Gone Bad is a great RnB album with some catchy pop hooks and great beats. The singles such as Umbrella and Don't Stop The Music are obviously standout tracks, and Rihanna's shown off a very soulful side on tracks such as Rehab and Cry.
The problem is that this re-release (as with most re-releases) is NOT worth owning if you already bought the original, as most of Rihanna's fans will have. Having to purchase an entire album again for the sake of three tracks - however good those three tracks are - is just a waste of money. You'd be much better off downloading the extra tracks from iTunes or somewhere for a couple of pounds instead of forking out for the entire album again. If you count it up, there have now been no less than 7 singles released from this album and it's being stretched to breaking point - which is a shame, because the original album was a great piece of work and doesn't deserve to be beaten to death for a cash in.
Thus my two star rating is based on the lack of value in this re-release rather than the music itself. If you've yet to succumb to the charms of Good Girl Gone Bad then this album IS worth a purchase and three extra tracks will actually be beneficial for you - but in the case of Rihanna's fans this feels like a bit of a rip off.
Marketing and new fans win, 13 Sep 2008
When I saw the vid for Disturbia I got excited that a new Rihanna album was imminent, but was surprised to see it listed for Good Girl Gone Bad.
Found on Amazon the re-release with the 3 additional tracks.
Great marketing idea. Great for fans who didn't get the original album.
VERY disappointing for those of us who paid for the original.
I would be more impressed if these 3 tracks could become the start-up for a brand new album or, as another reviewer suggested, a special disc: my suggestion would be for a DVD release of the vids (which are stunning).
Rihanna is a fabulous talent and there must be much more to come.
3 tracks are gr8!!, 07 Sep 2008
its ok. i luvd her original album. and the 3 bonus tracks are BRILLIANT songs which is why i sold my last and got this one. and with it being reduced already, why not if the only bonus 3 tracks are great anyway?
but why did she re-release instead of releasing a new album with these tracks. that would have been better...
"FANTASTIC", 07 Nov 2008
This has to be one of the best albums I have bought in a long time. Every track is good usually there is always a couple of songs that don't do it for you but every track is great.
This is my first Neyo CD but not the last.
Best album I have heard in a long while., 30 Oct 2008
Just bought this album on the weekend and have not stopped listening to it since. For me it is a natural progression from the last album. Other reviewers have complained of the likeness to Micheal Jackson. Yes, there is a hint of Michael Jackson in there but that's not a bad thing. Think Jacko in his heyday of Thriller or Bad and you will get the idea. Anyway, I personally think that Prince is more of an influence to Ne-yo's singing style than anyone else.
This album really is Ne-yo's best work. Its a combination of smooth R'n'B and pop. It is a very slick album - top notch production and writing. My favourite tracks are Closer , Part of the list, Stop this world and Single. In fact, the only track that hasn't hooked me is Nobody. As an album the mix of R'n'B ballads, like "Part of the List", and more uptempo beats, like "Single", really works. It's the kind of album you can listen to all the way through without reaching for the skip button.
My advice is, if you are into R'n'B then go for it and buy this album.
The bad bo of R and B is back, 28 Oct 2008
This album is immense, forget the singles you have heard and the mans image, the album tracks. The album is mostly made up of songs that Ne-Yo has been making with his mate usher and wycliffe from the refugees who is his dad. Track one tells of Ne-Yo's recent trouble with gambling addiction and O.C.D. that ended his relationship with Grace Jones. The last song is a fitting tribute to puff daddy who has recently been diagnosed with Chrome's disease.
This is ne-yo's best album to date, 22 Oct 2008
I love this album so much,i brought it the first day it came out and i just can't stop listening 2 this album.This album is his best to date.Here's a review of each track:
Closer-10/10 A great dance track, i love this track i don't care that this isn't what ne-yo normally does,ne-yo is defo the best rnb artist out there at the moment that's why this song went 2 number 1
Nobody-10/10 Another great dance feelgood track from ne-yo nobody cuts like her nobody nobody,this song is just fire
Single-10/10 This is nkonb's new song,but ne-yo's album version is much better,this is one of my favourite cuts on the album
Mad-10/10 Ne-yo so needs 2 release this as a single it would defo go straight to number 1 one of my favourite songs on the album
Miss independent-10/10 I love this song it's really insipiring 2 all the independent women out there love you ne-yo
Why does she stay-10/10 This song is a tune
Fade into the background-10/10 Another great song from ne-yo,i wonder if he is talking about his ex,if you have heard this song you will know what i am talking about
So you can cry-10/10 I love this song espically the last verse
Part of the list-10/10 This song is brillant i hope he also releases this as a single, i could listen to this song all the time,another favourite of mine.
Back to what you know-10/10 This is also one of my favourite songs off the album, a fire track
Lie to me-9/10 I like this song but i still not sure about the song,he defo sounds like micheal jackson when he is singing desperatley in the bridge of the song
Stop this world-10/10 A great slow jam from ne-yo another favourite song of mine
What's the matter-9/10 I like this song but i feel that the last song on ne-yo's albums are not always that good apart from his first album
You need to get this album in your collection if you have'nt got it yet what are you waiting for
Legend, 13 Oct 2008
ne-yo is a legend, the album is great and i think da albums a gud buy so get it!
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The Ballads
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Mariah Carey;
SonyBMG;
2008-10-20;
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Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days
*Best price found from Amazon Marketplace seller
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*Amazon: £7.05
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Customer Reviews
Why purchase the Latest iPods? Get it here for Next ta Nada!, 19 Nov 2008
Christmas is only weeks away, Why purchase something you can get for Next ta Nada?
Simply take a looksee : gi|ft.....u\n|i=v|erse d.o|.t c|o d.|o.t u|k (remve |.)
reg-ister and s|ign onto the love = film no commitments D|V|D R|ental promo
Many items to choose from; iPods, iPhones, Macbooks, iMacs, Mac Minis and loads more...
They send your iPod Touch to you Gratis of charge!
Have a Gratis Christmas :)
Enjoy!
Simply stunning, 01 Nov 2008
I bought this album as a chance puchase based upon a magazine article that I had read about her. I was unaware of the hype and as they don't play very many of her songs on Classic FM and Radio 4, was also unaware of her music!! The melodies are soulful and her voice mature beyond her years. I just love this album: sad but uplifting - how's that for an oxymoron. Yes it took me back to my childhood in the 60s. I would love for her to cover "Ferry 'cross the Mersey". Comparisons to other artists such as Dusty Springfield are understandable but unfair. To me she sounds like ... well Duffy
Not exactly duff but not great either, 18 Oct 2008
The girl is a talent, proudly celtic, and I wouldn't kick her out of bed, as they say, but hmm, sorry, the material, for me is just too unoriginal sounding. She seems to fancy herself as a Dusty revivalist but it's just all too obvious for me. She's got the voice and the looks, but I can't help thinking, after hearing this album that she's also got the style manager and the music manager. I think the woman is every bit as produced as her music, and boy, isn't her music produced! I'd like to see her throw off the shackles of her 'owners' and find her own style and her own sound and forget the Dusty thing now. Find your own voice, Duffy, and I'll listen to you again. At the moment, your'e too much of a package for me.
And on the Dusty thing, which has obviously got a lot of focus since Duffy's emergence, I really don't see a great deal of similarity in the two voices. Dusty's was incredibly warm and rich, a dark chocolate or coffee voice with a drop of Irish whiskey, but Duffy's is much more a Bicardi and coke voice, it has power but is a little sharp, it does not have the depth at all that her heroine's had. To me, it sounds far more like the voice of Lulu. When she realises this I just hope she doesn't dye her barnet red and start laughing a lot. Be yourself luv (and I can't see why you wouldn't want to be).
That hideous vibrato....., 15 Oct 2008
Duffy seems to be a likeable young lady and can sing in tune - but, in truth, her voice is extremely thin and harsh, and somebody has told her that it is OK to end every, and I mean every, line with a slow-motion vibrato. Duffy, it's just horrible, and the recent live apperance as a Jools Holland special was just unlistenable for that very reason. Why y y y y y do do do do do you hoo hoo hoo hoo doo doo doo doo i i i i i t?
Rockferry is by far the best track: the hit Mercy is pretty bland. The backing is really odd - the instruments are fairly distant and the girl is deliberately forward in the mix, which sounds like a cross between old Merseybeat and Tamla Motown circa 1968. Nothing wrong with that, it's just odd.
One reviewer wrote that it is the best record they have heard in about 30 years: well, I suggest that if it's female singers you want, try anything by Judie Tzuke with her amazing harmonies (Welcome to the Cruise, Sports Car, The Cat is Out Live DVD), Phamtasmagoria and Air Cut by Curved Air with Sonja Kristina, anything by Kiki Dee, anything by Dusty, anything by Judy Henske, anything by Paula Cole and so on (see my reviews on Amazon, who stock all this great stuff). I'm really sorry, but Miss Duffy is just not in that league by a very long way. I suppose she is a relief from the awful antics and monotone of Amy Winehouse (Ruth Archer - nooo, nooo, nooo), who truly is unbearable, but that does not make her great, just a relief.
I am sure that we all wish her luck, but the voice needs a really good coach and that numbing vibrato needs to be completely eliminated - it serves only to highlight the voice's thin sound.
24 going on 44, 09 Oct 2008
When I first heard 'Mercy' I didn't like it because I thought the background riff sounded too much like the one from 'Stand By Me' and, for me, it didn't quite work. Also, it is too easy to compare the latest female singing sensation to Dusty Springfield or Amy W which isn't fair on anyone concerned. Then I heard 'Warwick Avenue' and my interest was piqued (I had just split up with someone who lived in that part of London). Still I was waiting for something more.
Then I head 'Stepping Stone' and I knew I was going to buy this album, and I have not regretted it one bit. In fact, I think I like some of the album tracks better: 'Serious' is what the Supremes might have sounded like had they gone disco, smooth and funky with all the right squeals; 'Hanging On Too Long' which builds slowly with a soft guitar riff and begins to let rip about a third of the way through; 'Distant Dreamer', one of the best album closers I have ever heard, bold and brassy.
Then there is the title track 'Rockferry' (a strange choice for a first single) which build up some Dusty-style yearning for a long-cherished place a la 'Goin Back'; the unadulterated mayhem of 'Mercy' which sounds a lot better in the context of this album and rightly earned its Number 1 spot earlier on this year.
24 going on 44, Duffy is a talent to be reckoned with.
All Comparisons are False, 28 Oct 2008
Having now heard her album, to compare her to Lily Allen is a travesty. Adele is far better, her smooth voice and song writing skill for starters...
And whilst we're on the subject of comparisons, there's only one similarity to Amy Winehouse - and that is I love both of their albums, when my expectations were low.
Daydreamer: A chilled, melodic start to her debut album, but on first listen you kinda want to skip it to speed up your new listening experience. This is definitely one of those tracks you have to listen to a few times. Vocally she is very good.
Best For Last: Sounds quite bluesy, simple yet effective guitar backing throughout the beginning. Then the song gets going, catchy, warming and just simply easy to listen to. Love it.
Chasing Pavements: The song everyone will have heard already; perfectly placed on the album, vocally excellent and the main reason I noticed her in the first place.
Cold Shoulder: I read on another review the similarities between the intro for this with Massive Attack's Unfinished Sympathy. It's true; the sound is there, for about 10 seconds... The song itself is more upbeat than the 3 previous tracks, and in the middle of it there is a section that reminds me strangely, of Kula Shaker. ("time and time again I play the role of fool")
Crazy For You: Not my favourite song on the album. I do most of my listening in the car and I have been known to skip this one on more than one occasion.
Melt My Heart To Stone: When this song begins is the point in the album where she reminds me of James Morrison. I can't explain why, but it's no bad thing, I am a fan of his work also. Love this song.
First Love: This is a good song, but I for me, it drags a little. Not my favourite, I think I like this less than Crazy For You.
Right As Rain: If she was ever going to be compared to Winehouse, it would be because of this track. Fabulously catchy, I love to sing along to this in the car. I love the lyrics too, definitely one of the best.
Make You Feel My Love: Simple, yet beautiful. It is just the right duration; if it lasted much longer it could get boring.
My Same: If Adele was to ever be compared to Gabriella Cilmi, it would probably be for about 3 seconds into this song. But Adele goes on to prove her refreshing style one more time in another upbeat track with catchy sections, while retaining a smooth blues sound.
Tired: Arguably one of the best, If not THE best song on this album. Her enunciation can remind you of Lily if you are trying to compare. Love this song.
I'm impressed, and very surprised. I haven't yet got bored of this album and 10/12 are all brilliant songs. A strong debut, and to top it off, she's a nice person, she isn't (yet) a media monster and I hope it stays that way. I hope to see her around for years to come.
Nice voice but cheer up!!, 13 Sep 2008
I don't deny that this young girl has a nice voice, albeit not the greatest, but I cannot listen to this album the whole way through. I loved Chasing Pavements, but despite some OK tracks nothing else stands out, and it could all have been so much better. First and foremost, it's so depressing. I've tried a few times but I find it hard to listen to the whole album without either falling asleep or wanting to cut my wrists. Also, as I said she has a nice voice, but it might be even nicer if I could understand anything she's singing. Thank God there's lyrics in the booklet. And finally, the instruments. Adele really needs to get much more experience playing guitar as it ranges from mediocre to just awful, and this shows particularly on Best For Last.
It's not a terrible album, but a weak debut that hasn't set great future potential for Adele. Other new female artists around now such as Duffy and Gabriella Cilmi are likely to still be around in a few years, but I think if Adele wants to be remembered the same way, she's got a lot of work to do for the second album.
Tremendous!, 18 Aug 2008
Wow, well I thought superb, she is only nineteen - big future here.......Vocals on "Hometown" really moved me. A superb debut.
Not too bad but nothing to get excited about., 13 Aug 2008
While I have to say this is quite an entertaining album especially the strangely upbeat "Chasing pavements" and the rather quirky "Tired" This album is really one of a long line of "Next big thing" "Ella Fitzgerald" etc etc......
First off she sounds nothing like Ella Fitzgerald and is about as distant from the great soul singers as you can get. While Amy Winehouse for example may be able to carry it off (To an extent) the whole "modern soul" Adel really just doesn't cut it. Now I am not saying that is a particularly bad thing rather just be aware of what you are buying. If you are expecting a modern day Dusty Springfield then you are going to be seriously disappointed.
So what will you get? A number of tracks (I already mentioned 2 a third would be "Right as rain") That are extremely enjoyable tracks. On the song "Tired" I actually found her very British vocal sound to be more appealing than her attempts at soul diva singing that really do come off badly. If you think of Duffy, Amy Winehouse etc then you have an idea of what you are getting and you certainly wont be disappointed. If however you fall for the record companies plug of her being some kind of next great thing of soul then I am afraid you really will be unhappy with this one.
File under "Great to listen to on your ipod on the way to work"
Not Enough, 04 Aug 2008
Adele has a lovely voice and she has great potential as a singer, but one good song on an album is not really satisfactory from a purchaser's point of view. 'Chasing Pavements" is what captured me. The rest of the songs on this album are tedious, I'm sorry to say. Like too many other young artistes struggling to make a name, she has been tempted to pack out an album with too much dross. I think there must have been some bad advice given out along the way somewhere. Young talent needs careful nurturing. Too fast, too soon is not a good strategy for planning a serious career in either the singer or songwriting business. Primarily, a strong measure of self-criticism is needed on the part of the artiste if he or she is to build a good reputation. However, as I have said, Adele has a lovely voice, could be quite special one day with the right songs.
Rihanna reloaded...her best work that will never be matched...ever!!, 25 Oct 2008
it wasn't until Disturbia and Take A Bow that i became a fan of this smashing R n B star....and i saw this album for a great pice and i got it.
Umbrella was an awesome lead single but it didn't persuade me to buy the album the first time round.
but now this release was out...i had to get it....and my gosh is it an amazing album.
it's the equivalent of Michael Jacksons' THRILLER album...amazing stuff.
Madonna did it with Like A Prayer....now Rihanna the r n b equivalent has done it...and made it entirely personal and extremely enjoyable.
while Britney Spears CIRCUS is gonna knock it off the top spot as the album of 2008(i'm sure it may do so as Womanizer is spectacular)...for now Good Girl Gone Bad is definately the album of the year just matched by Madonnas Hard Candy and beating Cyndi Laupers Bring Ya To The Brink and Britney's Blackout album of last year.
the tracks-
Umbrella-4/5-amazing lead single and record breaking with over 10 weeks in the #1 spot and a further 3 months in the top ten.
Push Up On Me-4/5-really lures you into the album with a fantastic vibe.
Don't Stop The Music-5/5-excellent use of MJ's Startin' Somethin.
Breakin' Dishes-5/5-another rutal and excellent song...and an instant fave of mine.
Shut Up & Drive-3/5
Hate Thet I Love You-4/5-a great duet with Ne-Yo.
Say It-3/5
Sell Me Candy-5/5-fantastic and my fave song on the album...a classic.
Lemme Get That-4/5
Rehab-5/5-emotive and an excellent beat that makes it pure and astonishing.
Question Existing-4/5
Good Girl Gone Bad-4/5
Cry(uk bonus track)-4/5-it beats last years mediocre Unfaithful(shudder)...pure great track...us lucky Brits.
Disturbia-5/5-i defy anyone who doesn't love this track.
Take A Bow-5/5-enchanting song and has a sheer beauty about it that you can't help but love...a pure and well deserved #1.
If I Never See Your Face Aagain-4/5-a great close to the album feat. Maroon 5.
Obviously De gustibus..., 08 Oct 2008
First off, i'm not commenting on this as a re-release or whatever, as it is the only Rihanna cd i own. I'd never delved into Rihanna (metaphorically or physically) until Umbrella caught my attention - it is an absolute cracker! And hearing her namedropped a lot, i invested when i found Good Girl... on sale. What a dissappointment! I'm sorry, but people who rave about this album are either pre-pubescent or musically inept. There are two outstanding trax, Umbrella and Cry (whose piano part I have spent some time improvising on and am still mesmerised by), with Please Don't Stop The Music and Shut Up And Drive being decent runners up. the rest is jus cheap or, at best, quirky filler. Nice cover design tho... (and off course, those eyes!)
Only worth it if you hadn't already purchased the original, 13 Sep 2008
The original version of Good Girl Gone Bad is a great RnB album with some catchy pop hooks and great beats. The singles such as Umbrella and Don't Stop The Music are obviously standout tracks, and Rihanna's shown off a very soulful side on tracks such as Rehab and Cry.
The problem is that this re-release (as with most re-releases) is NOT worth owning if you already bought the original, as most of Rihanna's fans will have. Having to purchase an entire album again for the sake of three tracks - however good those three tracks are - is just a waste of money. You'd be much better off downloading the extra tracks from iTunes or somewhere for a couple of pounds instead of forking out for the entire album again. If you count it up, there have now been no less than 7 singles released from this album and it's being stretched to breaking point - which is a shame, because the original album was a great piece of work and doesn't deserve to be beaten to death for a cash in.
Thus my two star rating is based on the lack of value in this re-release rather than the music itself. If you've yet to succumb to the charms of Good Girl Gone Bad then this album IS worth a purchase and three extra tracks will actually be beneficial for you - but in the case of Rihanna's fans this feels like a bit of a rip off.
Marketing and new fans win, 13 Sep 2008
When I saw the vid for Disturbia I got excited that a new Rihanna album was imminent, but was surprised to see it listed for Good Girl Gone Bad.
Found on Amazon the re-release with the 3 additional tracks.
Great marketing idea. Great for fans who didn't get the original album.
VERY disappointing for those of us who paid for the original.
I would be more impressed if these 3 tracks could become the start-up for a brand new album or, as another reviewer suggested, a special disc: my suggestion would be for a DVD release of the vids (which are stunning).
Rihanna is a fabulous talent and there must be much more to come.
3 tracks are gr8!!, 07 Sep 2008
its ok. i luvd her original album. and the 3 bonus tracks are BRILLIANT songs which is why i sold my last and got this one. and with it being reduced already, why not if the only bonus 3 tracks are great anyway?
but why did she re-release instead of releasing a new album with these tracks. that would have been better...
"FANTASTIC", 07 Nov 2008
This has to be one of the best albums I have bought in a long time. Every track is good usually there is always a couple of songs that don't do it for you but every track is great.
This is my first Neyo CD but not the last.
Best album I have heard in a long while., 30 Oct 2008
Just bought this album on the weekend and have not stopped listening to it since. For me it is a natural progression from the last album. Other reviewers have complained of the likeness to Micheal Jackson. Yes, there is a hint of Michael Jackson in there but that's not a bad thing. Think Jacko in his heyday of Thriller or Bad and you will get the idea. Anyway, I personally think that Prince is more of an influence to Ne-yo's singing style than anyone else.
This album really is Ne-yo's best work. Its a combination of smooth R'n'B and pop. It is a very slick album - top notch production and writing. My favourite tracks are Closer , Part of the list, Stop this world and Single. In fact, the only track that hasn't hooked me is Nobody. As an album the mix of R'n'B ballads, like "Part of the List", and more uptempo beats, like "Single", really works. It's the kind of album you can listen to all the way through without reaching for the skip button.
My advice is, if you are into R'n'B then go for it and buy this album.
The bad bo of R and B is back, 28 Oct 2008
This album is immense, forget the singles you have heard and the mans image, the album tracks. The album is mostly made up of songs that Ne-Yo has been making with his mate usher and wycliffe from the refugees who is his dad. Track one tells of Ne-Yo's recent trouble with gambling addiction and O.C.D. that ended his relationship with Grace Jones. The last song is a fitting tribute to puff daddy who has recently been diagnosed with Chrome's disease.
This is ne-yo's best album to date, 22 Oct 2008
I love this album so much,i brought it the first day it came out and i just can't stop listening 2 this album.This album is his best to date.Here's a review of each track:
Closer-10/10 A great dance track, i love this track i don't care that this isn't what ne-yo normally does,ne-yo is defo the best rnb artist out there at the moment that's why this song went 2 number 1
Nobody-10/10 Another great dance feelgood track from ne-yo nobody cuts like her nobody nobody,this song is just fire
Single-10/10 This is nkonb's new song,but ne-yo's album version is much better,this is one of my favourite cuts on the album
Mad-10/10 Ne-yo so needs 2 release this as a single it would defo go straight to number 1 one of my favourite songs on the album
Miss independent-10/10 I love this song it's really insipiring 2 all the independent women out there love you ne-yo
Why does she stay-10/10 This song is a tune
Fade into the background-10/10 Another great song from ne-yo,i wonder if he is talking about his ex,if you have heard this song you will know what i am talking about
So you can cry-10/10 I love this song espically the last verse
Part of the list-10/10 This song is brillant i hope he also releases this as a single, i could listen to this song all the time,another favourite of mine.
Back to what you know-10/10 This is also one of my favourite songs off the album, a fire track
Lie to me-9/10 I like this song but i still not sure about the song,he defo sounds like micheal jackson when he is singing desperatley in the bridge of the song
Stop this world-10/10 A great slow jam from ne-yo another favourite song of mine
What's the matter-9/10 I like this song but i feel that the last song on ne-yo's albums are not always that good apart from his first album
You need to get this album in your collection if you have'nt got it yet what are you waiting for
Legend, 13 Oct 2008
ne-yo is a legend, the album is great and i think da albums a gud buy so get it!
great collections but..., 17 Nov 2008
...the record company left a few other underrated gems like "Never Too Far" which was the second single from "Glitter" and many more from her previous catalogues.
I think the proper title should be "the incomplete ballads" or "evil marketing-ploy for stocking filler ballads" since Christmas is just around the corner. What a pity. Still a great collection but not an excellent one.
Not ANOTHER pointless collection!, 09 Nov 2008
Firstly, MADONNA is the biggest selling female of all time, and secondly, what is the point of ANOTHER Mariah collection? Haven't we got them on all the other compilations????????? Nothing new here, just SONY farming the back catalogue again (very reminiscent of Michael Jackson and Celine Dion).
An Album for the nonFans, 29 Oct 2008
I have compared Mariah Carey Album N1 and this album- which has 8 songs previously included in the N1 album and I think when you are a true fan, all that is being proposed in this album you already heard and have at home. I give her 4 stars for her wonderful voice,and I was expecting bonus tracks. This album has a spiritual note to it which sounds good for Christmas present. But as a fan I am only impressed with her voice.
The Queen of Ballads, 22 Oct 2008
Mariah the Ballad Queen! As a huge supporter of Mariah and her ballads I was very excited about this CD and it's possible content. The producers have gone back to her roots with this CD and for anyone new to this majestic side of Mariah this purchase is a must! However, for the seasoned fans of this magnificent artist (who have all of her tracks already) there is a lot of great stuff here, but also pieces that do not belong at all as "ballads". There are missing songs like: "Whenever you call", "All I've ever wanted", "Lead the way", "Butterfly", "Music box", "When I saw you", "So blessed" and so much more that truly belong on a Mariah ballads album (but are not here??). Anyhow, everything said, it is a great work of art worth the purchase, which recognises and appreciates the record breaking achievements of the best ballad singer ever, our most wonderful Mariah.
the ballad princess., 19 Oct 2008
First of all, nobody on this earth can produce a ballad like Mariah, such a controlled voice. I am not the first to point out about the disappointment on the track listing of this release, but none the less still smacks punches too any other female release this year, it certainly deserves top marks for the pure genious strength behind the vocal. On a personal level i would prefer to see a release of the ballads that didn't get a single release here in the UK. I wouldn't have included The Roof or All I Want For Xmas, i would have personally chosen Whenever You Call and Oh! Holy Night and the solo version of Against All Odds. But am happy that Open Arms is allowed to shine one more time. Mariah's still got it, and this release shows why she is the biggest selling female recording artist EVER!!, and everything else released in the 90's should bow down to this compilation of ballads.
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Customer Reviews
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Simply stunning, 01 Nov 2008
I bought this album as a chance puchase based upon a magazine article that I had read about her. I was unaware of the hype and as they don't play very many of her songs on Classic FM and Radio 4, was also unaware of her music!! The melodies are soulful and her voice mature beyond her years. I just love this album: sad but uplifting - how's that for an oxymoron. Yes it took me back to my childhood in the 60s. I would love for her to cover "Ferry 'cross the Mersey". Comparisons to other artists such as Dusty Springfield are understandable but unfair. To me she sounds like ... well Duffy
Not exactly duff but not great either, 18 Oct 2008
The girl is a talent, proudly celtic, and I wouldn't kick her out of bed, as they say, but hmm, sorry, the material, for me is just too unoriginal sounding. She seems to fancy herself as a Dusty revivalist but it's just all too obvious for me. She's got the voice and the looks, but I can't help thinking, after hearing this album that she's also got the style manager and the music manager. I think the woman is every bit as produced as her music, and boy, isn't her music produced! I'd like to see her throw off the shackles of her 'owners' and find her own style and her own sound and forget the Dusty thing now. Find your own voice, Duffy, and I'll listen to you again. At the moment, your'e too much of a package for me.
And on the Dusty thing, which has obviously got a lot of focus since Duffy's emergence, I really don't see a great deal of similarity in the two voices. Dusty's was incredibly warm and rich, a dark chocolate or coffee voice with a drop of Irish whiskey, but Duffy's is much more a Bicardi and coke voice, it has power but is a little sharp, it does not have the depth at all that her heroine's had. To me, it sounds far more like the voice of Lulu. When she realises this I just hope she doesn't dye her barnet red and start laughing a lot. Be yourself luv (and I can't see why you wouldn't want to be).
That hideous vibrato....., 15 Oct 2008
Duffy seems to be a likeable young lady and can sing in tune - but, in truth, her voice is extremely thin and harsh, and somebody has told her that it is OK to end every, and I mean every, line with a slow-motion vibrato. Duffy, it's just horrible, and the recent live apperance as a Jools Holland special was just unlistenable for that very reason. Why y y y y y do do do do do you hoo hoo hoo hoo doo doo doo doo i i i i i t?
Rockferry is by far the best track: the hit Mercy is pretty bland. The backing is really odd - the instruments are fairly distant and the girl is deliberately forward in the mix, which sounds like a cross between old Merseybeat and Tamla Motown circa 1968. Nothing wrong with that, it's just odd.
One reviewer wrote that it is the best record they have heard in about 30 years: well, I suggest that if it's female singers you want, try anything by Judie Tzuke with her amazing harmonies (Welcome to the Cruise, Sports Car, The Cat is Out Live DVD), Phamtasmagoria and Air Cut by Curved Air with Sonja Kristina, anything by Kiki Dee, anything by Dusty, anything by Judy Henske, anything by Paula Cole and so on (see my reviews on Amazon, who stock all this great stuff). I'm really sorry, but Miss Duffy is just not in that league by a very long way. I suppose she is a relief from the awful antics and monotone of Amy Winehouse (Ruth Archer - nooo, nooo, nooo), who truly is unbearable, but that does not make her great, just a relief.
I am sure that we all wish her luck, but the voice needs a really good coach and that numbing vibrato needs to be completely eliminated - it serves only to highlight the voice's thin sound.
24 going on 44, 09 Oct 2008
When I first heard 'Mercy' I didn't like it because I thought the background riff sounded too much like the one from 'Stand By Me' and, for me, it didn't quite work. Also, it is too easy to compare the latest female singing sensation to Dusty Springfield or Amy W which isn't fair on anyone concerned. Then I heard 'Warwick Avenue' and my interest was piqued (I had just split up with someone who lived in that part of London). Still I was waiting for something more.
Then I head 'Stepping Stone' and I knew I was going to buy this album, and I have not regretted it one bit. In fact, I think I like some of the album tracks better: 'Serious' is what the Supremes might have sounded like had they gone disco, smooth and funky with all the right squeals; 'Hanging On Too Long' which builds slowly with a soft guitar riff and begins to let rip about a third of the way through; 'Distant Dreamer', one of the best album closers I have ever heard, bold and brassy.
Then there is the title track 'Rockferry' (a strange choice for a first single) which build up some Dusty-style yearning for a long-cherished place a la 'Goin Back'; the unadulterated mayhem of 'Mercy' which sounds a lot better in the context of this album and rightly earned its Number 1 spot earlier on this year.
24 going on 44, Duffy is a talent to be reckoned with.
All Comparisons are False, 28 Oct 2008
Having now heard her album, to compare her to Lily Allen is a travesty. Adele is far better, her smooth voice and song writing skill for starters...
And whilst we're on the subject of comparisons, there's only one similarity to Amy Winehouse - and that is I love both of their albums, when my expectations were low.
Daydreamer: A chilled, melodic start to her debut album, but on first listen you kinda want to skip it to speed up your new listening experience. This is definitely one of those tracks you have to listen to a few times. Vocally she is very good.
Best For Last: Sounds quite bluesy, simple yet effective guitar backing throughout the beginning. Then the song gets going, catchy, warming and just simply easy to listen to. Love it.
Chasing Pavements: The song everyone will have heard already; perfectly placed on the album, vocally excellent and the main reason I noticed her in the first place.
Cold Shoulder: I read on another review the similarities between the intro for this with Massive Attack's Unfinished Sympathy. It's true; the sound is there, for about 10 seconds... The song itself is more upbeat than the 3 previous tracks, and in the middle of it there is a section that reminds me strangely, of Kula Shaker. ("time and time again I play the role of fool")
Crazy For You: Not my favourite song on the album. I do most of my listening in the car and I have been known to skip this one on more than one occasion.
Melt My Heart To Stone: When this song begins is the point in the album where she reminds me of James Morrison. I can't explain why, but it's no bad thing, I am a fan of his work also. Love this song.
First Love: This is a good song, but I for me, it drags a little. Not my favourite, I think I like this less than Crazy For You.
Right As Rain: If she was ever going to be compared to Winehouse, it would be because of this track. Fabulously catchy, I love to sing along to this in the car. I love the lyrics too, definitely one of the best.
Make You Feel My Love: Simple, yet beautiful. It is just the right duration; if it lasted much longer it could get boring.
My Same: If Adele was to ever be compared to Gabriella Cilmi, it would probably be for about 3 seconds into this song. But Adele goes on to prove her refreshing style one more time in another upbeat track with catchy sections, while retaining a smooth blues sound.
Tired: Arguably one of the best, If not THE best song on this album. Her enunciation can remind you of Lily if you are trying to compare. Love this song.
I'm impressed, and very surprised. I haven't yet got bored of this album and 10/12 are all brilliant songs. A strong debut, and to top it off, she's a nice person, she isn't (yet) a media monster and I hope it stays that way. I hope to see her around for years to come.
Nice voice but cheer up!!, 13 Sep 2008
I don't deny that this young girl has a nice voice, albeit not the greatest, but I cannot listen to this album the whole way through. I loved Chasing Pavements, but despite some OK tracks nothing else stands out, and it could all have been so much better. First and foremost, it's so depressing. I've tried a few times but I find it hard to listen to the whole album without either falling asleep or wanting to cut my wrists. Also, as I said she has a nice voice, but it might be even nicer if I could understand anything she's singing. Thank God there's lyrics in the booklet. And finally, the instruments. Adele really needs to get much more experience playing guitar as it ranges from mediocre to just awful, and this shows particularly on Best For Last.
It's not a terrible album, but a weak debut that hasn't set great future potential for Adele. Other new female artists around now such as Duffy and Gabriella Cilmi are likely to still be around in a few years, but I think if Adele wants to be remembered the same way, she's got a lot of work to do for the second album.
Tremendous!, 18 Aug 2008
Wow, well I thought superb, she is only nineteen - big future here.......Vocals on "Hometown" really moved me. A superb debut.
Not too bad but nothing to get excited about., 13 Aug 2008
While I have to say this is quite an entertaining album especially the strangely upbeat "Chasing pavements" and the rather quirky "Tired" This album is really one of a long line of "Next big thing" "Ella Fitzgerald" etc etc......
First off she sounds nothing like Ella Fitzgerald and is about as distant from the great soul singers as you can get. While Amy Winehouse for example may be able to carry it off (To an extent) the whole "modern soul" Adel really just doesn't cut it. Now I am not saying that is a particularly bad thing rather just be aware of what you are buying. If you are expecting a modern day Dusty Springfield then you are going to be seriously disappointed.
So what will you get? A number of tracks (I already mentioned 2 a third would be "Right as rain") That are extremely enjoyable tracks. On the song "Tired" I actually found her very British vocal sound to be more appealing than her attempts at soul diva singing that really do come off badly. If you think of Duffy, Amy Winehouse etc then you have an idea of what you are getting and you certainly wont be disappointed. If however you fall for the record companies plug of her being some kind of next great thing of soul then I am afraid you really will be unhappy with this one.
File under "Great to listen to on your ipod on the way to work"
Not Enough, 04 Aug 2008
Adele has a lovely voice and she has great potential as a singer, but one good song on an album is not really satisfactory from a purchaser's point of view. 'Chasing Pavements" is what captured me. The rest of the songs on this album are tedious, I'm sorry to say. Like too many other young artistes struggling to make a name, she has been tempted to pack out an album with too much dross. I think there must have been some bad advice given out along the way somewhere. Young talent needs careful nurturing. Too fast, too soon is not a good strategy for planning a serious career in either the singer or songwriting business. Primarily, a strong measure of self-criticism is needed on the part of the artiste if he or she is to build a good reputation. However, as I have said, Adele has a lovely voice, could be quite special one day with the right songs.
Rihanna reloaded...her best work that will never be matched...ever!!, 25 Oct 2008
it wasn't until Disturbia and Take A Bow that i became a fan of this smashing R n B star....and i saw this album for a great pice and i got it.
Umbrella was an awesome lead single but it didn't persuade me to buy the album the first time round.
but now this release was out...i had to get it....and my gosh is it an amazing album.
it's the equivalent of Michael Jacksons' THRILLER album...amazing stuff.
Madonna did it with Like A Prayer....now Rihanna the r n b equivalent has done it...and made it entirely personal and extremely enjoyable.
while Britney Spears CIRCUS is gonna knock it off the top spot as the album of 2008(i'm sure it may do so as Womanizer is spectacular)...for now Good Girl Gone Bad is definately the album of the year just matched by Madonnas Hard Candy and beating Cyndi Laupers Bring Ya To The Brink and Britney's Blackout album of last year.
the tracks-
Umbrella-4/5-amazing lead single and record breaking with over 10 weeks in the #1 spot and a further 3 months in the top ten.
Push Up On Me-4/5-really lures you into the album with a fantastic vibe.
Don't Stop The Music-5/5-excellent use of MJ's Startin' Somethin.
Breakin' Dishes-5/5-another rutal and excellent song...and an instant fave of mine.
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