MGF Reviews Joss Stone – Introducing Joss Stone

Reviews


Joss Stone – Introducing Joss Stone
Virgin Records (3/20/2007)
R&B/Soul/Pop

Joss Stone needs no introduction, but with her latest album, Introducing Joss Stone, she’s about to be the headturner of 2007. You’d think that she’s just come on to the scene, but Stone is no newcomer. In fact, the Dover, Kent, U.K., native has sold more than 7.5 million albums worldwide, has been nominated for four Grammy Awards and much more—all before her 19th birthday.

Introducing… is extremely upbeat, sexy and doesn’t feel forced, with proper nods to Motown, while still managing to sound very contemporary. Early Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, and Alicia Keys signature voices all remind me of Stone’s efforts with this album. The R&B and pop flavors create a product very similar to Christina Aguilera’s recent efforts to try something new and authentic. Stone can make this her signature sound as she says, “This is the first album that is truly me. That’s why I’m calling it Introducing Joss Stone. These are my words, and this is who I am as an artist.”

The first single being released to radio is “Tell Me ’bout It,” a strong choice featuring the mix of rap, R&B and catchy pop, which acts as a good lithmus test for the album as a whole. “Tell Me What We’re Gonna Do Now” is a worthy follow-up single, with its acoustic sound blending in well with Common’s organic rapping style. “Music”, co-written by and with a guest collaboration rap with R&B/rap artist Lauryn Hill shows Stone’s strength to have an R&B hit on her hands. The back story on the track is interesting, as it was originally inspired by The Fugees’ “The Mask”. In fact, Stone really went to great lengths to get Hill to record the song with her, calling Hill’s mother every day for a month and a half, repeatedly asking if she had listened to the song yet.

This album is strong because Stone doesn’t overdo her vocal strengths and doesn’t try to outsing herself or others in a effort to get attention or sales. Stone’s R&B/soul/pop flow commands recognition by the combined strength of her voice and the melodies. Stone is not to be mistaken to sound like Kelly Clarkson, or like many other artists on radio now, and that’s not a swipe at anyone. Introducing… is headed for long stay on the charts because Stone’s voice is so unique; there’s really nothing like it on the mainstream landscape and “Honey, Honey!” strong. The songs flow together with ease, complimenting each other and keeping the energy of the album throughout. Most were co-written by Stone, are a reflection as to where she is in her life: enjoying her love for her music, and enjoying relationships as they come and go. This is a album that is to be played over and over again, and is one of the most fun albums released so far this year. With Introducing…, Stone has just proven that she is ready to go to the next level.

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