"Simple Times"
Joshua RadinBy Jon Vorpe
Jesuit High School
Joshua Radin (of Hotel Cafe fame) from the start of his second album, "Simple Times," carries a message about the importance of love.
Through his opening song, "One of Those Days," Radin's powerfully soothing voice quickly comes into focus as he expresses the commanding power of love.
The album's protagonist is introduced as a man who is trying to escape from the troubles of his loss.
Those who believe in the sophomore slump for musicians, will be pleasantly surprised by this unbelievably excellent album.
While Radin's first album, "We Were Here," was a little darker and rawer, "Simple Times" reaches new strides in Radin's remarkable career, making this album's emotional core more inspiring.
"I'd Rather Be with You" is the first single from the album, and rightfully so. Radin's voice is booming and demands attention, as this beat-heavy song continually captivates.
"Sky" is also incredible, as singer-songwriter Meiko (also a Hotel Cafe regular) accompanies Radin in this lovely song about an epiphany.
In following Radin's career, it is true that he likes to write songs that are uplifting and optimistic and that is certainly the case with this album.
Despite all the happiness in this album, a few songs (namely "Free of Me," "One of Those Days"and "You Got Growing Up To Do") are focused on darker reactions to the world.
By the end of the album, a true conclusion about having love in one's life is reached in "No Envy No Fear." Here's a lyric: "Every day we try to find / search out hearts and our minds / a place we used to call our home / can't be found when we're alone."
Clocking in at only 30 minutes, this album is short.
Nonetheless, it accomplishes the task of inspiring people to understand the importance of love in one's life.
"Year of the Gentleman"
Ne-YoBy Jessica Thompson
Monterey Trail High School
I have five words when it comes to Ne-Yo's latest album: best album of the year.
Ne-Yo did an outstanding job with this album. With mind blowing lyrics and beats that will make you move, Ne-Yo has done it again, he has made another hit album.
The album contains songs for the heart broken, songs for singles, songs for the independent and, of course, what we all know Ne-Yo for, love songs.
I know when I buy an album, I like to listen to it and be satisfied. Trust me, with this album you will be too.
The album contains collaborations from New Kids on the Block and Jaime Foxx, an interesting mix that makes the album even better.
I would strongly recommend this album. I guarantee it has something on it for everyone.
Buy it!
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