I bought the first album having heard her sing the hook on both Jay-Z and Nas records. I was very impressed with that album in the sense of it provided something different to what I was used to with R&B/Soul music. I really love this chick's jazzy feel and her voice is incredible. Songs like "Let's Rock", "Best Of Me" and "Mr Radio" were amongst my favorites.
Epiphany is an album whereby she has completely switched it up, still having that funk and jazz vibe from her previous album but with a more contemporary feel. I actually think this will appeal to a wider range of listeners as its very young, hip and fresh.
Unlike the previous album, I adore every single song on this album, and in my opinion each song has single potential. First and foremost, "On My Own" is sure to give you chills, because of the lyrical content (so many people feel this way) or because of the way she expresses how she feels with her voice. "Mr Right" will have you bopping like your listening to some funk or 80s rap music. I love the vocal harmonies on this song. "Playing Our Song" is a really fun song,for some reason it reminds me very much of the song "WOW" by Brandy...don't ask why it just does. I love this song and I am aware that Claude Kelly had input with this song. Very impressive. "Notebook" gives the old school vibe soul music, very relaxing and her voice really shines here. I can see the video for this being set in the 1920s. "Blame It On Me" is absolutely heart warming, the fact she's singing about wanting a relationship to be over regardless of the reason is touching; the same goes for "I'm Okay". Hands down "Epiphany" will be the reason people buy this album, if it wasn't for this single, I would not be aware of the album's existance (the truth). Working with Ne-Yo was a great decision on Chrisette's behalf. He is a great writer and sometimes his songs go to waste with 'certain' artists. For some reason "Another One" has a type of country vibe going on, I like the hook, but the first verse had my face twisted up because I really do not like country music. I think its just in the way she sings the song. "Porcelain Doll" is a fiesty song, and a lot of women will be singing this gauranteed. "All I Ever Think About" is a good slow jam and the vocals yet again are of a high standard. Finally, a bangin' song on the album has to be "Fragile". The hook on this song is crazy and will definately stick in your head afterwards.
Generally, her voice brings out the emotions of this album extremely well. The songs are very real, her voice is raw which makes the songs believable. I am officially claiming this as the best R&B/Soul album of this year (Hello Grammy's 2010!!). Very consistent throughout, great voice, great songs and great melodies. What more could you ask for.
MY TOP 5:
1. On My Own (I have this on repeat)
2. Epiphany
3. Mr Right
4. Playing Our Song
5. Notebook