English singer-songwriter, Adele, has just released her sophomore album, 21, on February 22, 2011. The “Chasing Pavements” singer followed up her multi-Grammy award winning album, 19, with an album that can only be described as stunning. Her big vocals combined with her genuine and relatable lyrics make 21 a must have for 2011.The album opens with its fist single, “Rolling in the Deep,” which is already receiving radio-play and is featured in commercials for the film, “I Am Number Four.” With its pounding drum beats, aggressive piano chords, and scornful lyrics, “Rolling in the Deep” perfectly sets the tone of the album.
Followed by another bluesy-soulful track, “Rumor Has It” (Produced by Ryan Tedder of One Republic-composer of Beyoncé’s 2009 hit, “Halo”) is packed with grit, bold attitude and more captivating drumming.
Adele keeps with her soulful theme in tracks “I’ll Be Waiting” and “One and Only” while hinting at an Aretha Franklin-inspired gospel sound.
As she did in her debut album, Adele features a cover on 21. This time around she has chosen to cover The Cure’s “Lovesong,” from 1989. The song was rearranged with instrumentation that gives the song a bossa nova feel, which I found to be out of place with the rest of the album, but a great cover nonetheless.
“Turning Tables” and “Someone Like You” are two notable tracks on the album, showcasing Adele’s vocal abilities backed by piano, while displaying her strongest songwriting on the album, evoking emotion without coming off as pathetic love songs. “Someone Like You” will be the album’s second single due to high download sales. During a live webcast from the Tabernacle in London, Adele stated that “Someone Like You” is her favorite song she has written because of the way she was able to articulate her feelings.
With the release of 21, Adele has set herself apart from the Amy Winehouse’s and Duffy’s of the music industry. The arrangements of this album have been constructed to keep Adele’s rich vocals as the focal point. 21 is a perfect break-up album that will leave me alternating favorite tracks every few weeks.
Shawn Manning can be reached at SM749898@wcupa.edu.