... Released in 2004, "Breathe In" produced two Top 10 singles and became a Top 20 album. This is pretty impressive, except that it was a Top 10 album in both Spain and the Netherlands and she's had No 1 singles in both countries. Her second album didn't make the Top 40 in the UK, but was a Top ... Read review
Advantages: Some gorgeous pop ballads Disadvantages: She's not as well known as she deserves to be
With all the furore about when the European Union have too much control over the United Kingdom's laws and products, it's always a shame when the Europeans spot something really great that belongs to us, but they get to enjoy it as we don't want it any more and have thrown it out. Lucie Silvas is one such thing; there's no reason why the British shouldn't like her music, having embraced the likes of Delta Goodrem and having voted en masse for Leona ... ...but we've let her go.
Her official debut album is the perfect indication of this. Released in 2004, "Breathe In" produced two Top 10 singles and became a Top 20 album. This is pretty impressive, except that it was a Top 10 album in both Spain and the Netherlands and she's had No 1 singles in both countries. Her second album didn't make the Top 40 in the UK, but was a Top 5 album in the Netherlands. If "Breathe In" ... more
With all the furore about when the European Union have too much control over the United Kingdom's laws and products, it's always a shame when the Europeans spot something really great that belongs to us, but they get to enjoy it as we don't want it any more and have thrown it out. Lucie Silvas is one such thing; there's no reason why the British shouldn't like her music, having embraced the likes of Delta Goodrem and having voted en masse for Leona Lewis to win the last series of "The X Factor", but we've let her go.
Her official debut album is the perfect indication of this. Released in 2004, "Breathe In" produced two Top 10 singles and became a Top 20 album. This is pretty impressive, except that it was a Top 10 album in both Spain and the Netherlands and she's had No 1 singles in both countries. Her second album didn't make the Top 40 in the UK, but was a Top 5 album in the Netherlands. If "Breathe In" had been a bad album, I would understand this, but I can find nothing here that would explain why Lucie Silvas isn't a huge name.
"Don't Look Back" is a laid back opener, being an acoustic guitar led mid-tempo pop track not too dissimilar to the likes of Delta Goodrem. The song does get a little livelier during the chorus and it sounds a little more like a toned down Natalie Imbruglia. With this being a bit more up tempo than some of the others on the album, this is a favourite of mine.
The piano intro to "The Game is Won" always reminds me of the start of Aerosmith's "Crazy", although this song carries on to be a pop ballad, instead of a fully fledged rock one. However, there is a little bit of an edge to the vocal and the end result is something like what I imagine you'd get if Delta Goodrem covered an Aerosmith song.
The acoustic guitar takes main stage again for "Last Man Standing". This is a very stripped down pop ballad and seems to have a slight country tinge to Silvas' voice in some parts, which makes it sound like a Leann Rimes ballad, although without the orchestration and being over produced.
"Forget Me Not" is quite similar, being another stripped down pop ballad, although with a piano backing this time. With the song being just the piano and Silvas' vocal, it sounds a little harsher than "Last Man Standing", although you do get to hear the full power and the soulful edge to her voice in some parts where she drops into a little bit of Mariah Carey style vocal work. Fortunately, however, she doesn't do that for long.
The title track was the only song from the album I'd heard before and this was some time ago. "Breathe In" is a lot more up tempo and pop influenced than most of the songs on the album, which makes it one of my favourites. There's quite a soulful edge to the pop vocal and Silvas sounds a lot like Christina Aguilera did in her early pop career, during her "Genie in a Bottle" phase.
As a rock fan, the thought of any female solo vocalist covering Metallica's "Nothing Else Matters" fills me with fear, especially remembering what a hash Mariah Carey made of "Def Leppard's "Bringing on the Heartbreak". To pre judge this version, however, turns out to be a mistake. It's a very toned down version, with just vocal, piano and orchestra, so not unlike Metallica's own version with the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra on their "S&M" album. When the song is taken to a very basic level like this, it works far better with Silvas' vocal, which is a lot stronger and clearer in tone than James Hetfield's and it becomes a beautiful pop ballad.
Listening to "Without You", it feels like the album has come full circle, as it's almost the twin of "Don't Look Back". This is another mid-tempo pop track with hints of Delta Goodrem's sound. The chorus isn't quite as lively as the earlier song, but the two are very similar and both are very decent pop tracks.
In its turn, "What You're Made Of" has similarities to ""The Game is Won", although without resembling an Aerosmith cover version. It's another piano based pop ballad that expands later on with the addition of the orchestra and there is a definite Delta Goodrem influence, in both the backing music and in the song itself.
There's another guitar based mid tempo pop track up next, with "Twisting the Chain" falling somewhere between "Don't Look Back" and "Last Man Standing". It's not quite as upbeat and pop influenced as the former and lacks the emotional of the latter, although it is still a decent enough song, especially towards the end where it expands into something far more rounded. Some of the guitar work early on reminds me a little of Sandi Thom or Michelle Branch, although Silvas' vocal is superior to both.
"No Defence" returns me to the idea that the album is essentially an EP, repeated to fill space. This track is very similar to "Forget Me Not", being another stripped down piano led pop ballad which reminds me once more of Delta Goodrem.
"The Longer We're Apart" is another down tempo pop ballad that seems to fall between the two sounds that Silvas has used on the album, being quite upbeat, but still down tempo. Both piano and guitar are present, which is slightly unusual and there is a choir in the background which gives the song more of a soul feel to it. Unfortunately, it does drag on a little too long at just short of six minutes and by the end, which comes across like an extended live version before it's done, the track has outstayed its welcome.
It's back to more familiar ground for "Like You Love Me", which is again a guitar influenced pop track. Once more this is mid-tempo and feels closest to "Twisting the Chain", although without the expensive ending which comes as a disappointment as that would have picked the track up. As it is, it's not a song that really goes anywhere, but just starts and ends without making much of an impression.
There's a slight edge to the album closer, "Seven Veils", which makes it sound a touch different to anything that's gone before it. It's still a largely pop influenced ballad, but there is an almost Eastern feel to it, which gives it a little bit more than usual, although I can't work out if I like it or not.
Despite this slightly confusing ending, at least from my point of view, this is a very good pop album. Personally, I would have preferred a few more up tempo tracks like "Breathe In", but this is still a well put together album. You get pretty decent value for your money as well, with the 13 tracks lasting for more than 52 minutes. Admittedly, this is more background music, so most of those 52 minutes can drift past you quite happily, but if you're looking for music to relax to, this is perfect.
If this is your kind of music, the prices are very reasonable, especially given the quality of the album. Play lists the album at £5.99, whilst Amazon is selling new copies for £5.97 and used from 79 pence and copies have been seen on eBay from 1 p. If you're a fan of laid back, well crafted pop music, such as Delta Goodrem and Vanessa Carlton, this is well worth a purchase. I'm a fan of both artists and this is an album that sits wonderfully in my collection next to both and stands comparison with either.
This is the album for all occasions.
from the first track I was sucked in.
This album has a mixture of song types from ballads to pop hits.
Don't Look Back - Track One.
Gentle, soft and catchy track with a lovely backing.
Some soft guitar and piano leads you into a wonderful middle and end.
A good track for the car!
Game is won - Track Two.
This song blends some orchestral sounds with Lucy's wonderful voice. Another one for the car. It slowly ... ...to sing to!
Last Man Standing - track Three.
This is a more gentle track.
Another one to sing to but a calmer track. There is a lot of feeling in all of Lucy Silvas' music and this is no exception. The chorus is light and the whole song has a beautiful backing.
Forget me not - Track Four.
A very soft and gentle track this song is slower and more subtle than the others.
A piano is the main partner to Lucy's voice in this song, they compliment ...
Maniac1701d 27.03.2005
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Ciao members have rated this review on average: very helpful Review of Breathe In - Lucie Silvas
Advantages: Is personal, and the girl's voice is good! Disadvantages: Not really, although one or two songs may be growers
I have heard all the comparisons. Delta Goodrem, Christina Aguilera, Leanne Rimes, and they may even go on. But despite this, Lucie Silvas seems to shine with her own sound and her own style. Throughout the 13 track album her beautiful voice flows effortlessly over sometimes quiet and enchanting songs but perfectly compliments faster up tempo tunes. Without you ever having to read up on her background, the songs seem to be bravely displaying some ... ...Her frist single 'What You're Made Of' is a song I like to play loudly for the sheer excuse that it's just so damn good! It was an excellent choice for her debut into the music scene, and instantly catupulted her into the spotlight.
I first saw Lucie on a music channel after a night out, and sat down to listen because I had never heard of her before and was interested. And even though it was like 4 in the morning, and I was about to collapse onto ...
Majiggy 08.02.2005
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Ciao members have rated this review on average: helpful Review of Breathe In - Lucie Silvas
Advantages: Without doubt the best album of this year so far! Disadvantages: Wish we had heard from her sooner!
In a country of processed pop and excuses for music, young British singer songwriter Lucie Silvas comes as a breath of fresh air. Already establishing itself as an instant classic, this album is not to be missed. “Breathe In” is a beautiful mixture of contemporary tunes that’s easy to listen to. She has been writing music for some years and no doubt you would have heard some of her work which has been recorded by artists such as westlife and Will ... ...lime light. For those who haven’t yet heard the album or her single which is in the charts at the moment (What You’re Made Of) Lucie Silvas can be compared to having the voice of Christina Aguilera with the style of Delta Goodram. She has already been likened to great artists like Sheryl Crow and Michelle Branch. So what makes this young singer stand out form the crowd? Apart from her stunning looks and extremely easy voice comes a talent for writing ...
Minty23 06.11.2004
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Ciao members have rated this review on average: helpful Review of Breathe In - Lucie Silvas
Advantages: Beautiful songs, beautiful voice, brilliant debut album Disadvantages: A little samey towards the end!
...a bit forgetful ironically!
Breathe In - title track and most rcent release from the album. Is very melodic and quite up tempo. Simplistic, easy to listen to pop from Ms Silvas.
Nothing Else Matters - possibly my favourite track from the album, could see this doing well in the charts. I dunno if its a cover but is very familiar?! Haunting vocals and just s brilliant brilliant song.
Without You - unfortunately not a highlight. Its not rubbish its ... ...really stand out!
What You're Made Of - this song is nothing other than stunning! I have listened to this track soooooo much. Her vocals are amazing, the tempo and pitch are perfect - the best ballad of 2004!
Twisting The Chain - shows piano's arent the only instrument she loves, as is quite guitar influenced. Doesn't really go anywhere but makes a nice change.
No Defense - least favourite track. Great vocals lots of piano but... Goes on a bit ...
simoon69 04.03.2005
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Ciao members have rated this review on average: helpful Review of Breathe In - Lucie Silvas
Advantages: If you love ballads and relaxed it's one Disadvantages: Can't think of any
...‘What You’re Made Of’, a breathe of new talent set to reach the top, sounds like a classically trained, disciplined and described by her record company as gifted, versatile with the range of Christina Aguilera, and breathes the life into the lyrics. You would think listening to her that she is the latest American import but no she is British.
Lucie (24) is the young sophisticated singer/songwriter, a piano player, also the beauty to go with it. ... ...pop of "Don't Look Back," The orchestra makes its appearance on the dramatic ballad "The Game is One," the kind of song I would chose as a Bond theme, which gives Lucie a range of her vocal talent. "Last Man Standing" is a piece of pop / soul, while "Forget me not" is a gentle, piano ballad. After the stillness of the proceeding song, the up-tempo soft rock of the delightful title track provides a welcome contrast, before a wonderful orchestra and ...
arms_of_an_angel19 26.10.2004
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Ciao members have rated this review on average: helpful Review of Breathe In - Lucie Silvas
Originality
Lyrics
Quality and consistency...
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Advantages: Back to her folkier route, fantastic lyrics and singing voice. Disadvantages: A couple of bad tracks, not her strongest album to date.
and Lester Mendez. This is my favourite, favourite, favourite song out of many from her albums. It's a rockier piece, with a fantastic guitar solo intro that makes you tap to the beat. It reminds me a cross between LucieSilvas' "BreatheIn" and Belinda Carlisle's "Leave The Light On". The lyric in this is so romantic, yet sorrowful at the same time. The melody of the chorus runs smoothly from line to line. It's a 'must hear' song - One powerful ballad".
Verdict - 10 / 10
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
(9) Last Dance Rodeo (6:16)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Don't wander too far, my one constant star, darkness exists."
Lyric and music by Jewel Kilcher. Back more into her traditional slow folky style with a soft rock beginning. As usual, another powerful chorus that fills up the room. This song is slightly filled with lecture and advice ...
Advantages: Good collection of chart hits, good mix of dance, indie, rock and pop Disadvantages: Some obligatory dull and rubbish "fill" songs
My Words Around You
LucieSilvas - BreathIn
Doves - Black and White Town
The Bravery - An Honest Mistake
Freefaller - Do This! Do That!
Thirteen Senses - Thru The Glass
Feeder - Tumble and Fall
Raghav feat. Frankey Maxx & Jucxi D - Angel Eyes
Jo Jo - Baby It's You
Atomic Kitten - Cradle
Brian McFadden & Delta Goodrem - Almost Here
Tony Christie - (Is This The Way To) Amarillo ...
Advantages: variety of songs and artists, lots of No.1's Disadvantages: many songs you've never heard of
- Wrap My Words Around You - Got to no.12 in February 2005.
11 LucieSilvas - BreatheIn - This song gave her, her 2nd top ten hit in January 2005.
12 Doves - Black And White Town - Twins Jez and Andy Williams and friend Jim are the doves. This song comes from their 3rd album 'Some cities'.
13 The Bravery - An Honest Mistake - Released early March of this year, this just got into the top 10.
14 Freefaller - Do This! Do That! - Ollie, Dean, Gary and Richard got to no.8 this year with this, their debut single.
15 Thirteen Senses - Thru The Glass - A 4 piece band from cornwall, getting into the top 20 in January this year.
16 Feeder - Tumble And Fall - Their biggest single since 2001, tumble and fall got to no.2 this february.
17 Raghav Ft. Frankey Maxx & Jucxi D - Angel Eyes - Indian Raghav got to the top 10, with Angel Eyes, his third ...
welshgal17 04.05.2005 (05.05.2005)
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Ciao members have rated this review on average: very helpful Review of Now 60
Product Information for "Breathe In - Lucie Silvas" »
Product details
Title
Breathe In
Performer
Lucie Silvas
Genre
Rock & Pop
Release Date
11/10/2004
Recomended Retail Price
16.99 GBP
Label / Distributor
Mercury / Universal Music
Producer
Mike Pedan
Pieces in Set
1
Studio / Live
Studio
Stereo
Stereo
Format
Performer
EAN
602498670255
Catalogue Number
9867025
Additional notes
Album Notes
Debut album from young British singer-songwriter who has already written songs for the likes of Rachel Stevens, Gareth Gates and Liberty X. This set of mature, adult oriented pop sets Silvas's rich, soulful voice against classy, piano-led arrangements. Produced by Mike Peden (Des'ree, Shara Nelson), the album includes the top ten single 'What You're Made Of' as well as a striking reinterpretation of Metallica's 'Nothing Else Matters'.
Titles on disc 1
1.
Don't Look Back
2.
Game Is Won
3.
Last Man Standing
4.
Forget Me Not
5.
Breathe In
6.
Nothing Else Matters
7.
Without You
8.
What You're Made Of
9.
Twisting The Chain
10.
No Defence
11.
Longer We're Apart
12.
Like You Love Me
13.
Seven Veils
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26/10/2004
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