Review Summary: A solid, albeit boring debut from a talented singer-songwiter.
Most songs on
Natalie Prass, the debut of singer-songerwriter Natalie Prass, were already written a few years ago. With the help of producer, and old-school friend Matthew E. White these tracks eventually found their way into this record. His production polishes every track with horns and strings, which gives the album an authentic feel.
Even though the album deals mostly about breakups and broken hearts, Natalie Prass usually sings with a sweet, innocent voice. This is especially evident in the lovely closer “It Is You’’, which sounds like it’s been taken straight from an old Disney movie. This sweet voice not only adds to the authentic sound of the album, it also makes the listen feel very pleasant and light-hearted.
Natalie Prass is full of ballads, but is at its best if the tracks get a little bit more upbeat, or at least with a memorable chorus. The best tracks: “My Baby Don’t Understand Me” and “Why Don’t You Believe In Me’’ are both catchy and immediate. The first of those two is a wonderful power ballad with its uplifting instrumentals (in the climax) and irresistible chorus.
Natalie Prass is a fairly consistent debut; there aren’t many flaws to be found. “Reprise’’, the only really bad song, is an unfitting combination of Prass’ talking voice and the instrumentals, making the song annoying. The lyrics of that said track are also an useless repetition of “Your Fool” lyrics. The main problem with the album is that it’s quite boring at times, “Violently’’ is the worst offender: it doesn’t offer nearly enough in its 5-and a half minute runtime.
Due its consistently lovely sound,
Natalie Prass makes a pleasant listen. But despite its loveliness, this album unfortunately can’t wholly capture the listeners attention. It still can be an overall enjoyable listen, however.
