Loving Adele

Whenever a new vocalist steps into the American musical arena, music critics and DJs are tempted to classify the vocal style or to make comparisons. It's only natural, I suppose, as we all tend to relate that which is new to that which is familiar. British singer-songwriter, Adele Adkins, is one such artist--relatively new on the music scene, at least in this country. There is a problem with Adele, however. Her voice and style are incomparable and difficult to categorize.

For a music lover with completely eclectic musical tastes like mine, classification of Adele's album titled simply 19 is easy. I have filed it under "Music I LOVE." Adele is an "old soul," writing with sophistication and musical awareness well beyond that of her twenty-something contemporaries.

I first discovered Adele when she appeared on SNL. Like most Saturday nights, I had fallen asleep shortly after the opening monologue and first sketches. Luckily, I woke up just in time to see Adele singing "Chasing Pavements." The song seemed very familiar to me, and I was sure I'd heard it before. And yet, I could not place it. That's the thing about this music; it seems comfortably familiar and fresh all at the same time.

Adele's 19 is a rich collection of soulful ballads and laidback, yet sophisticated pop tunes. Adele proves herself to be both a serious musician (playing bass and acoustic guitar) and a playful young adult. Her lyrics are thoughtful. With the exception of one Bob Dylan cover, all of the selections were written or co-written by AdeleThe musical arrangements are multi-layered. One of my favorites, "Cold Shoulder," features snare drum riffs reminiscent of a marching band. Listen carefully and you'll even hear a glockenspiel. The use of orchestral strings adds a level of maturity and elegance that sets this music apart from the offerings of two other young female singers, Colbie Caillat and Sara Bareilles. The music is fresh and unpredictable with clever use of changing rhythms and tempos. But what stands out, above all else, is Adele's richly unique voice. It's an amazing blend of that smoky, developed voice of a seasoned blues singer and the youthful, almost angelic tones of an adolescent girl. .

"Chasing Pavements" is getting some airplay on stations here in San Francisco. But, I don't think it will be a huge hit. This is music for more refined tastes. If you loved Corinne Bailey Rae ... check it out. If you prefer a steady diet of Brittney or Madonna, skip this one. You just won't get it.

Favorite tracks:
Chasing Pavements
Best for Last
Cold Shoulder
Make You Feel My Love (B. Dylan)

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Loving Adele