Yahoo! Music Album Review

Released on 31/03/08
Label: Atlantic/Home School

It's been a long hard slog for Estelle Swaray. As far back as a decade this west London singer and MC was making waves in the underground urban scene with her lyrical sass, striking soul and R&B sensibilities. Collaborating with the likes of rapper Blak Twang and DJ Skitz not only gave her kudos in the genre, it also showed that Estelle was more than just a superfluous talent. After being picked up by label V2 and releasing glorious debut "The 18th Day", which spawned smash hit "1980", it seemed nothing could get in the way of mainstream success. But in the afterglow of her first record, troubles with her label meant she would be left without a deal and effectively branded as a one-hit wonder thereafter.

Four years on,, though, things are looking up for Estelle. Equipped with a new label - HomeSchool Records, run by soul supremo John Legend - and some super famous friends, it seems she has exceeded all expectation with her sophomore album "Shine". Roping in musical behemoths like Will.iam, Kanye West, Mark Ronson, Wyclef Jean and Cee-Lo, it was inevitable that Estelle's second record about love, relationships and female empowerment would be a big deal. But don't be fooled into thinking it's the big American names that are carrying this record, because her lyrical wit, seductive soul vocals and Brit charm offensive prove she is strong enough to punch above her weight.

With current single, the Kanye-guesting "American Boy", Estelle throws down the transatlantic gauntlet and is actually funny with it. Comically, she takes her high-pitched vocal inspiration from "Hi-de-Hi"'s Peggy as she talks about her "bredren", while West chats about "Wags" and being a "bloke". The fact it's knocked soul chanteuse imitator Duffy from the UK Number One spot in the charts is affirmation enough that Estelle is back with a bang. Former single "Wait A Minute (Just A Touch)", produced by Will.i.am with an irresistibly catchy hook, is equally tongue-in-cheek as she deadpans: "Wrap it up 'cos I ain't carrying your embryo". Who said romance was dead?

Elsewhere, stand-out single "In The Rain" has a Barry White groove written all over it and is reminiscent of The Five Stairsteps "O-o-h Child", but with a glazed sunshine feel to it. Meanwhile "No Substitute Love" is a smooth soul take on the verses of George Michael's "Faith". But it's "Shine"'s title track that embodies much of the true subject matter here. With the lyric "This is my song / I'm just like you, I've got the right to stay strong", is a telling quip against all those that thought she was destined for the bargain bin. If anything, "Shine" will propel Estelle into the ranks of international superstardom.

    by Ash Dosanjh