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Singer by choice

James Blunt's debut album `Back To Bedlam' is a rage worldwide

IMPRESSIVE DEBUT James Blunt's album combines meaningful emotions with smooth vocals PHOTO: AP

His father defined the most impressive pieces of classical music as `unnecessary noise' and anybody in the family who remotely tried to hum or sing was glared at. Not a very auspicious start for James Blunt, whose ancestors were warriors, with a history of combat since 997 C.E.

Blunt was 14 when he broke away from family tradition and bought himself a guitar. Music was the direction he took in his quest for an `interesting life.' Blunt went on a pub-hopping mission in Los Angeles, to understand what sort of music Americans listen to, and to unlearn his Brit accent. In September 2003, he was signed on to record with Hollywood music producer Tom Rothrock. His debut album happened two years later in October 2005, and the tracks from the album `Back To Bedlam' (EMI, CD, Rs. 395) are still doing their rounds in the international music charts.

The album is an interesting mix of soulful rhythms set against the backdrop of contemporary pop accomplishments with a hint of techno. Blunt's vocals are impeccably smooth, and support the soulful, yet breezy overtones of the tracks. A feel-good vibe runs through most of the tracks, but at times, the songs speak of his inner darkness and emotions.

Positive energy

The first single, `You're Beautiful,' has an extremely positive energy running through it, and has an infectious tune which clings on to you, ensuring that you hum the song at the first hearing. Another track that stands out in the album is `Goodbye My Lover,' which Blunt reputedly recorded in Carrie Fisher's (of `Star Wars' fame) bathroom, where she has a full-size piano installed. There is also a track called `So Long, Jimmy,' which is meant to be a tribute to Jim Morrison and Jimmy Hendrix, which reminds you of a retro Doors number.

James Blunt is highly impressive in his debut album, and combines meaningful emotions with smooth-sounding vocals. A much needed change from the clutter created by hip-hop.

A. Vishnu

A. VISHNU

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