This is all I have listened to since Sunday.

So good : )

Adele '21' review: Perfect album floats beyond countries and time


BY JIM FARBER
Tuesday, February 22, 2011

What a difference two years makes.

Adele underscores the point right in the titles of her CDs. She named her first "19," after her age when she recorded it. Twenty-four months later, she has dubbed the new one "21," but the growth spurt it measures suggests a span of decades.

Make no mistake, "19" was no novice leap. It showed a young singer blessed with a handsome tone, ample lung power and an enviable ability to negotiate a tune. It fully deserved its platinum sales and Best New Artist Grammy.

Even by that heady measure, "21" makes "19" seem tentative and callow. It shows advancement on every level, from vocal technique to melodic depth to production consistency. Though Adele's debut had some arresting songs, especially the graceful and aching "Chasing Pavements," many pieces followed contemporary R&B/soul cliches or wandered off into arch jazz eddies. Also, the singer held back at times, as if wary of making full use of her imposing skills. (more)