Things are falling into place and the weather is finally settling down. Maybe this is just the calm before the storm but till then I can finally take a little breather. All of these descriptions are metaphors of course, but needless to say, my workload has settled down and my work schedule is about to take a hiatus. The world knew I needed a break and it gave to me. So with that said, I wanted to reflect on my current status with an album by an artist who recently won best new artist a few days ago at the Grammy's. I'm not going to lie, I was just as confused as the next person by their decision to choose such an artist, let alone such a genre, for this award...but then I gave it a listen and i started to understand...the concept of do what you love and it'll take you far was evident. With artists such as Lady Antebellum and Arcade Fire taking home major awards, it's no secret that the game is changing and personality seems to be shaping the directions of the critics. My job for example takes a lot out of me (distance, dealing with fans, always keeping a positive attitude), but I absolutely love it, and no matter how tired I am from school or other social activities, I know that if i just do what i love and not act like its my job, it'll take me far. So far it's working in my favour and i'm glad that the same concept is working for an artist like Esperanza Spalding.
#19
Esperanza Spalding - Esperanza
Jazz is not my strong suit but I can still tell if a flow is working or not. Esperanza started playing the double bass when she was four and attended the Berkeley college of music, which is essentially the Harvard for music students. Her trend of adapting Brazilian style to fit with jazzy tones is exquisite, it's catchy, it's smooth and you can just tell that she loves it...you have to feel it. Her bass and her voice are an extension of her body and her first single "
Precious" is proof of just that. This record is by far the most mainstream of her records, though much like Drake's hit single "Over", I guarantee you that Precious will grow on you without a doubt. "
Ponta De Areia" is another beautiful record sung entirely in Portuguese, adapting her brazilian roots to a jazz rendition. Since i'm not educated in the Portuguese language, I took this opportunity to just sit and listen, especially to the voice since the voice is essentially another instrument in itself. I have a great respect for jazz musicians, not only because its bloody difficult to play, but it pushes you to feel the music, not just to perform it.
My sister pointed out that you have to have a certain form of recognition in order to be deserving of an award, such as best new artist. I agree to an certain extent only because fame and recognition is what artist gain through time, but not what artist usually strive for...well I can't speak for all because i'm not an artist myself, but you can't be too surprised for Esperanza to win this award. Personally I would of chosen Mumford & Sons because of their pure talent and rapid recognition, but the category was up in the air...secretly everyone cheers for the underdog and sometimes they prevail.
Esperanza Spalding - Esperanza
4/5
Recommended Songs:
Precious
Ponta De Areia
I know You Know
Body & Soul
Ps...I added a few things on the bottom...check it out!
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