Imogen Heap - Speak for Yourself Review
Posted by Michael Nalbach on 02.06.2006
UK songstress impresses with US debut
I figured I would break from my hip-hop norm with this one and deliver a review on a singer I recently discovered through an episode of "The OC" of all places. Her name is Imogen Heap, who after working with producer Guy Sigsworth on the group Frou Frou and releasing a solo debut that was UK-only, breaks into the US market with a lushly produced, melodic album that is a breath of fresh air in the stagnant pop market.
Most will be familiar with the single "Hide and Seek" which was featured on "The OC". It's an acapella, vocoder aided effort that caught me by surprise on the first listen. It has such a haunting sound, and it's lyrical content is deeply emotional. The song hits you with such force, evoking emotions that most of today's hollow pop music just doesn't do.
Another strong track is the upbeat "Goodnight and Go". Its supported by a solid backing track and the subject matter is definitely interesting. Its an interesting take on having strong feelings for someone and being unable to let them know. I suppose the song is open for interpretation, but thats what I got out of it.
"Headlock" is a little more electronic sounding, with a pulsating beat and eerie, melodic vocals. It's definitely my favorite track on the album, with a great, infectious hook that will not leave your head. Very creative lyrically, detailing the usual relationship tribulations very poetically. I can see this song enjoying success with some good radio exposure. "Loose Ends" continues the trend with some nice electronic production and a catchy melody. Not as enticing as "Headlock", but enjoyable nonetheless.
The album closes on an emotional note with "The Moment I Said It", a piano-powered ballad that is a fitting closer to a good album. Imogen's sadness-tinged voice works wonders over the track. It's one of those songs that alot of people would enjoy if they gave it the chance, but like most of the album, is too unconvential to get mainstream airplay.
The 411: As a devout hip-hop head, Imogen Heap would have been the last artist I would have seen myself enjoying. However, her sound is a like a sigh of relief in a worn out, cliched pop genre that anyone with an ear for good music should check out. It's a decided improvement over her previous works, and if you are a fan of groups like Evanescence (thats the most obvious comparison I could make), you will definitely enjoy this album. Right now, Imogen has to Speak for herself, but with the right exposure, alot of people will be speaking for her.
