Is there a way to chuck a computer out of a window without breaking it? I want to show mine I hate it, but I still want it to love me... I've had sooo many issues with it over the past week or so, hence why it's taken me an absolute age to write this. But I'm gonna get on with it now, before my computer breaks for the millionth time. So, I'm starting with Adele-19. I've played 21 to death, but I never really got round to listening to 19 properly. I think at the time, I wasn't really too bothered with Adele, an opinion which has definitely now changed! I was completely blown away, and kinda mesmerized from the start, which rarely happens if I'm honest.
19 opens with 'Daydreamer,' a beautiful acoustic track which simply showcases the true beauty of Adele's voice. Sometimes it;s the simply tracks that are the best, and here is a true example of that. If that doesn't draw you into the rest of the album, I don't know what will. As the album moves into 'Best for Last,' we're hit with another minimalistic track, truly proving that that is all that Adele needs to show she deserves her place at the top of the charts. The track builds into a more accompanied chorus, giving it an uplifting feel. There's a strong theme of love in this album, as Adele sings from the heart, and (probably) from experience- "how dare you think you'd get away with trying to play me."
'Chasing Pavements' and 'Cold Shoulder,' bring a different feel to the album, but this in no way damages the album. In fact, the two singles give the album a certain dynamic which not only destroys the idea that Adele is a one-trick pony, but also gives a variety that is important in maintaining listener interest. The album is not short on acoustic and low-key tracks, and I'm personally glad that sometime else is being bought to the table here.
'Melt My Heart to Stone' is a both lyrically and melodically impressive track, hitting the hearts of many listeners, as Adele sums up a relationship that many have had. She sings of forgiving things we shouldn't forgive ("As you tear your way right through me, I forgive you once again"), with a line that particularly stuck in my head- "I'm the only one in love." The best songs are written from experience, and once again, Adele has used hers to create a standout track on the album.
'Right as Rain,' is an upbeat track, again changing the dynamic of the album and proving that Adele is about more than just acoustic, low-key numbers. Moving through a stunning cover of Bob Dylan's 'Make You Feel My Love,' and a more 'jazzy' (I can't think of the word I want to use, so I'll have to use that once...but please don't let that put you off!) offering in the way of 'My Same,' the album ends with 'Hometown Glory.' This is personally my favourite track, and has been for a long time. Beginning with a beautiful piano solo, with piano continuing throughout, it's the perfect song to end on. Starting as the album began, it simply displays the beauty of her voice, with no gimmicks, autotuning or any of that nonsense. I can't sum up how much I love it.
I can't believe I never listened to this album before, but I'm glad I've finally taken the time too. It's an outstanding album, showing off Adele's amazing vocal talents perfectly. She needs no add-ons or fantasy stuff, and I hope she continues like this (she definitely did in 21). SO worth a listen, you won't regret it.
(I hasten to add that this is definitely not the best review ever. I really wanted to express how much I loved the album, so I went for it.) Challenge #1- Completed.
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