Katie Melua
Secret Symphony
Dramitco Records
Katie Melua is a instantly recognisable British
Singer-Songwriter, gaining in popularity ever since she debut back in 2003. Now
from the singer who told us how many bicycles are in Beijing (9 million
apparently) comes her latest album Secret
Symphony. Released on the 5th of March, it is Katie’s latest
album since her UK No. 4 The House,
released back in 2010.
Gold In Them Hills starts
the album with the familiar raspy tones that we have come to expect from Katie.
Admittedly the lyrics do remind the listener of an old prospector (“There’s
Gold In Them Hills”), but it is still a lovely song. In fact, the album is full
of ‘lovely’ songs, with Better Than a
Dream, the first single to be released from the album, and All Over The World continuing this
theme. But all is not as happy in Melua’s world. The Bit I Don’t Get details the sudden break up of a long-term
relationship. The lyrics are so emotive and powerful that you can almost feel the
pain and confusion in Katie’s voice as she explains how she “Didn’t see the
writing on the wall”. Moonshine sees
Katie change her style, with the song having a distinct country and western
feel to it. This American feel carries over into Nobody Knows You When You’re Down And Out. The smooth sounding
trumpets allow Katie to wander into the New Orleans Jazz Scene, creating a
beautifully intimate feel. So much so that the listener can easily picture
Katie strewn across a large black grand-piano in a small and smoke-filled jazz
bar. All this put together makes it one of the best tracks on the album.
Like most other albums by Melua, the best way to describe
this record is as “Mellow Pop”. It is an album that can play in the background,
with Melua’s vocals floating from melody to melody, song to song. It’s not a
bad thing, but several songs, including The
Cry OF The Lone Wolf and Heartstrings,
drift past with no memorable lines or noticeable tunes. Melua herself explained
how “There is a simplicity to the album that I love” which is very true, with
each song showcasing Katie’s unique vocal style perfectly. Yet the simple and
beautiful sounds of Melua’s voice and lyrics aren’t for everyone. But Melua
fans will love it, and the varying styles and emotions may gain her a few more
this time round.
No comments:
Post a Comment