http://www.goupstate.com/article/20071108/NEWS/711080316/1015/AEWho? A singer from Milford, Pa.
Sounds like? Most will remember Carlton for her 2001 pop hit "A Thousand Miles." Afterward, despite releasing a superior sophomore album, "Harmonium," Carlton couldn't maintain commercial success and fell into obscurity after her label dropped her.
The singer returns with a newfound confidence in "Heroes and Thieves," most noticeably in her musicianship. While her debut showed promise, Carlton's piano composition relied more on finding one catchy jingle and repeating it throughout the song.
Her compositions now sound more focused on fully developed melodies, yet never lose sight on keeping the listener engaged.
Carlton's lyrical content feels more akin to poetic short stories. With "Heroes and Thieves," the singer spins a collection of tales ranging from regretful reminiscing to warm, youthful hope. This display of growth in her songwriting goes hand-in-hand with her voice, which has grown stronger.
By taking care to be less nasal, Carlton allows herself a wider range with more impact. She sounds more personal and is able to convey the emotion of the song, not just deliver a pretty pop tune.
Now is definitely the time to get reacquainted with Carlton's work. With her growing talent and an ever-deepening catalog, the singer has proven that she's here to stay. While an expansive tour is still on the horizon, you can still check out her material, both new and old, on her MySpace page: www.myspace.com/vanessacarlton.
Latest release: "Heroes and Thieves" (Oct. 9)
Download this: "Come Undone," "Twilight," "The One," "Half a Week Before the Winter"
Rocks like: "Wild Hope" by Mandy Moore, "Wreck of the Day" by Anna Nalick, "Stand Back" by Stevie Nicks
Reach Griffin at savesthegreenday@gmail.com.
I was trying to find a way to the Greenville, SC radio thing that she's doing and stumbled upon this. Just thought it was interesting. =]
edit: bigtuna says that it's a typo, it's Greenville, NC. Either way, I wanna go!
