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« on: October 12, 2007, 01:09:20 pm »
I've finally gotten to listen to it. My cd hasn't arrived in the mail yet, but I got tired of waiting and being left out.
I love it! Vanessa doesn't disappoint! Here are my initial thoughts.
Nolita Fairytale - I've loved this song since I first heard it and I think it makes an awesome introduction to the album. It really sets the upbeat, reflective tone.
Hands on Me - I was surprised by the production of this one. It's the same song as it was, but different somehow. I like the song; it's good, but I'm not sure how I feel about this final version. I don't particularly like when the strings slide from note to note during the bridge, but at other points in the song it's not as bad. And I'm not sure the constant drum beat suits it.
Spring Street - This song is alright. The "Na na"s are a little dull, but not quite bad. Doesn't really grab me. I think the song has a very unique sound though.
My Best - I like this one a lot! It's very cute and would make for a good single I think.
Come Undone - This song is pretty good. But I really don't understand the opening. It doesn't seem to fit with the rest of the song and I think it would have been more concise without it. I still like it a lot though. "The only one I come undone for is you" is pretty catchy. Another potential single. And the clapping makes it feel cozy and intimate.
The One - This turned out pretty good! This was always one of her sweetest songs. I had heard lots of comments about Stevie Nick's vocals, but I didn't think they were bad or mismatched. It added another layer and something new to the song. And it's cool to have her and V sing together. The piano part at the end of the verses (i.e. "And you think my time's for free / in all the ways you say to me / sweet versions of let's wait and see") isn't as compelling as it used to be but the orchestrations throughout the song kinda make up for it.
Heroes and Thieves - Love it! I loved the acoustic versions we've heard were great, but this takes it even further. I'm very pleased with the production of this one. The strings are beautiful and Vanessa's vocals are really pretty. It's very worthy of titling the album.
This Time - UGH! I've never really cared for this song and it's just as underwhelming now. And too slow as well. I guess it's supposed to be some kind of power ballad now. This song particularly bugs me as I would much rather have had Best Behavior instead of this. However, bland for V is still good.
Fools Like Me - This song is really good. I could totally see this as a single as well.
Home - So pretty! A very sweet, calm song. This one probably showcases her piano skill the most on this album. I love the solo at the end. It comes off very heartfelt.
More Than This - Awesome song! Great end to the album! It's very pretty, powerful, and has inspirational lyrics as far as I can tell. I haven't listened to them that closely yet. The chorus adds a lot too.
I don't really like the synthesized bits of the album, like the electronic instruments and the overlays of V singing w/ herself. But everything else is awesome. While it's easier for me to describe the things I don't like, there were a bunch of things about this album I really love. There are so many great melodies on this album. It was very good to hear a lot of them for the first time. I'm not quite sure how I would compare it to her other albums yet. They're all good and they're all different IMO. I only hope her next one comes out very soon (relatively).