Francesca Battistelli burst into the Christian music industry with one of the most successful debut albums in recent history, and she hasn't stopped since. Scoring several chart-topping hits and taking home the Female Vocalist of the Year hardware early last year, the hype has built during the two and a half year span since her first project's release. Now on March 1st she will be introducing her sophomore set, "Hundred More Years."To tell you the truth, I wasn't sure what I was going to hear on this album. The same light pop feel that defined her on "My Paper Heart," or maybe she'd surprise us and bring out a whole new twist. After listening to it this week I'd say it has a little of both.
The lead single "This is the Stuff" has been playing on the radio for a month now, and though it is different than her usual sound, the song has an upbeat radio appeal that is very enjoyable. The following song, "Constant" might be a little predictable lyrically, but her vocals (think Natalie Grant) take the cake. Though I've always thought she had a very talented voice, she impressed me on this one and certianly has never been better. A couple tracks later, "Emily (It's Love)" shows up, and even if the writing style came across a bit awkward, Dave Barnes special appearence added some flavor to the piece.
So through the ups and the downs on this CD, I'd have to say if nothing else it was a lot of fun. Even though there were a few fill-in songs, (Motion of Mercy and Angel By Your Side both lacked emtion and good punch lines) the greats made up for it in memorable fashion. From the country Taylor Swift sound on the title track and "You Never Are," to the simple but perfect "Worth It," this album feels whole from stard to finish. ~ Christian Lingner
4/5 stars
Thanks for sharing:)
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