I bought Amy Winehouse's debut album without much knowledge of her style. All I knew at the time was that she had hailed much critical acclaim and was a member of the new jazz revival, encompassing other young artists such as Jamie Cullum.
What I didn't realise was how different this album would be. From the initial prelude to the final chord Amy demands your attention. Frank certainly doesn't make easy listening, but with its 'Frank', comical and often poignantly accurate lyrics it engages with the listener on a musical as well as lyrical level.
What is interesting about the album is that far from going down the route of performing old classics, Amy has written new songs that encompass other styles, from hip-hop to old school jazz, to reggae. This means the music is fresh and the lyrics aid its impact.
The album could not be criticised for its lack of originality. Its fusion of styles keeps the listener interested. From song to song the drama and emotion is sustained.
What is particularly great about this album is that Amy is not afraid to write about what she knows. As a young woman from North London she most definitely 'keeps it real'. As a female of a similar age I really connect to the the subjects she writes about. Relationship turmoil, the fickleness of woman in their attempts to lure men into one night standsand the difficulties of fidelity in a relationship when one partner is absent. Particularly well written is 'Stronger than Me' which deals with men's confusion over their role in relationships; 'Why d'you always put me in control/All I need is for my man to live up to his role'.
Frank lives up to its name and maintains its originality throughout. Winehouse can only be praised for creating something fresh that people will really connect with.
A fantastic debut - experience it now.
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