American Authors’ debut album: “Oh, What a Life” is a breath of fresh air for the music industry. (Album cover property of Mercury Records)
By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com
What a great week for new music!
In this edition, I look into the debut albums of both American Authors and Lea Michele. Plus, I also look at new CDs and singles from old favorites!
Oh, What a Life by American Authors
When I did my Five Question Challenge with the band earlier this year, I knew that there was something special about them. Their debut album is a breath of fresh air. Music lovers would like the ear-catching lyrics and superb production that is sprinkled throughout this album. It would be hard not to smile while listening to Oh, What a Life and I hope that Zac, James, Matt and Dave produce another incredible album soon. A+
Tracks to Download: “Believer,” “Think About It,” “Best Day of My Life,” “Hit It” & “Ghost”
Louder by Lea Michele
The Glee star’s debut album shows that there is a bright future for her once the show ends next year! However, at certain times in the album, it seems that Ms. Michele loses the listener. But, she pulled them back in with Sia Furler-penned tracks such as “Battlefield” and “You’re Mine.” However, I would like to hear a little more upbeat songs on her sophomore album. B
Tracks to Download: “Cannonball,” “On My Way,” “Battlefield” & “You’re Mine”
With the help of superstars Daft Punk, Justin Timberlake and Alicia Keys, Pharrell delivers an outstanding sophomore album. (Album cover property of Black Lot Records & Columbia Records)
G.I.R.L. by Pharrell Williams
I have been looking for a great R&B album that showcases soul, funk and even blends with other musical genres like EDM and rap. G.I.R.L. provides all of that and outstanding production (and incredible falsettos) from the seven-time Grammy winner! In addition, keep your ears open for Justin Timberlake, Alicia Keys, Daft Punk and Miley Cyrus, who make vocal cameos throughout the album. I hope that there are several Grammys and American Music Awards in Pharrell’s future! A
Tracks to Download: “Brand New,” “Happy,” “Come Get It Bae,” “Gust of Wind” & “Know Who You Are”
I’m a Fire by David Nail
David Nail’s I’m a Fire is a very strong country album. Country music fans would enjoy listening to Nail’s impressive vocals all throughout the 11 tracks. They would be also be pleased that David recruited several of the next generation of Nashville songwriters including Brett Eldredge, Shane McAnally and Jimmy Robbins to assist him with the songwriting. In addition, both David’s respective collaborations with Little Big Town and Lee Ann Womack are true highlights of this record. B+
Tracks to Download: “Whatever She’s Got,” “Broke My Heart,” “When They’re Gone (Lyle Country)” & “Galveston”
Coldplay’s “Magic” was extremely boring and lack a umpf that was showcased in previous singles. (Album cover property of Parlophone Records)
“Magic” by Coldplay
There is no way to escape this…but this was a too mellow and boring of a single to be released! I hope that Ghost Stories features stronger material from the British rock band because it is going to bore a lot of listeners. C-
“Say Something” by Pentatonix
My favorite cover of the first quarter of 2014 is Pentatonix’s cover of A Great Big World and Christina Aguilera’s “Say Something.” It featured Kevin Olusola’s beautiful cello playing and as usual strong multiple part harmonies. Plus, I thought it was great to hear Avi’s impressive baritone range. I hope that when the group records PTX, Vol. III this song is on the record. A-
I do not own all of the clips that are featured in this article. They belong to the artists and their respective record labels.
