Wouldn't life be great if you could morph all your favourite musicians into one gorgeous star of musical greatness. Imagine, no more disappointments, just pure untainted brilliance time and time again.
Unfortunately 21st century technology hasn't progressed that far yet, so we'll have to make do with our popstars warts and all. But how about a compromise? Nelly Furtado, a 21 year old Portuguese-Canadian singer/songwriter, could be just that. Hailed as the female Beck after causing a stir with her debut single, 'I'm Like A Bird', her first album 'Whoa, Nelly!' is set to catapult her to major stardom.
'Whoa, Nelly!' is an eclectic mix of infectious latin and R&B influenced pop tracks, which will be a refreshing change to any ear that's sick of the monotonous pop-by-numbers that seems to be forever topping the charts.
Gems like opener, 'Hey, Man!', the dreamy soul-searcher that recalls a chilled Alanis Morissette-meets-Ani DiFranco after a spiritual journey to Brazil and the seductively sexy 'Baby Girl' with its ambient Smoke City vibe, will manage to bring a smile to the hardest of faces. Although her lyrics highlight her naivety at times, it's difficult not to fall for Nelly's honesty and passion. She delivers her philosophy on life and love with a sassy, self-assured style that will draw you in without you even noticing and it's all packaged up in a sexy voice, reminiscent of Gwen Stefani, that soars fearlessly.
Apparently Nelly wanted to make an album of heartfelt songs that are upbeat and hopeful. One listen to 'Whoa, Nelly!' will confirm that this girl has risen to her challenge. 'Trynna Finda Way', 'Well, Well' and the superb 'Turn Off The Light' will bring the hottest of summers into your life on even the darkest of days. And that is something not to be scoffed at. Okay so it suffers from repetition in places and the last pair of songs are arguably disposable, but this collection shines and sparkles as an impressive debut.
And you're never too tired, stressed or disillusioned to celebrate the joy of youth, are you? Even if it is someone else's.
