UK soul singer Gabrielle has quite a distinctive voice (think Dreams and Out of Reach). It always seems to sound the same and that was my primary concern before listening to Always, her sixth studio album. And yet, after listening to the twelve tracks on this new release, I realised it hadn’t been an issue.
Always is an easy listening album. Easy as in you could imagine it playing in the background at your local coffee haunt or whilst chilling out on a lazy Sunday at home. This is by no means an insult or a slight against it but more an observation. Gabrielle has managed to produce a non-intrusive album that is based around relationships coming to an end. Namely three stages: The lead up to, The fallout and The aftermath. But in a surprise twist, rather than be depressing, aggressive or accusatory, it is gentle, reflective and inspiring. Confused? I was too. Lyrically, it is accessible and vocally it is laidback. I found this to be a mature departure from many recent offerings of younger starlets.
There are a few stand-out tracks to mention such as Why, Love Me Like You Do, Wiser and Closure. Some you may even see in future rom-com soundtracks. One thing is for certain, Always is a breath of fresh air for anyone who is prepared to venture down a road less travelled.
Available through Universal Records
