Guest Blogger: Amy C2

A piano and her natural voice is all she needs to capture one’s attention. Mysteriously calm yet also uplifting, Vanessa Carlton released her second album Harmonium in 2004. Classified as pop music, Vanessa Carlton’s new album offers a mixture of various piano tempos as well as insightful lyrics. While her first album Be Not Nobody revealed the works of a young and still learning musician, Harmonium reveals Vanessa Carlton growth into a more mature and powerful musician. The lyrics of the various songs in Harmonium portray emotions varying from defiance to hope. The album opens with what seems to be like an upbeat song called “White Houses.” However as the song progresses, the listener immediately catches onto the regretful tone of the lyrics. The stunning transition between Vanessa Carlton’s songs in her first album reveal maturity and depth. For example, "C'est la Vie" entices the reader with creative and catchy rifts in the music. The melody of the song is somber, thus portraying the feelings of depression and loneliness. Vanessa Carlton’s music is very similar to that of Regina Spektor’s. For both singer/songwriters, the piano is an integral component of their music. Not only does the piano accompany their lovely voices, but both musicians understand how to utilize to create spooky melodies. One song that I repeatedly enjoy listening to from this album is the song “Who’s To Say.” I like this song because it describes defying the opinions of others and trusting oneself. Vanessa Carlton sings, “And you say we're too young, but maybe you're too old to remember.” She sings about how, though people may declare what is the best based on their own experiences, only the individual understands what is best for him/herself because the individual is actually experiencing it. I completely agree with the critics positive review of Harmonium. Harmonium is mysteriously soothing and mature due to Carlton’s distinct development of lyrics and piano melodies. Thus it is needless to say that investing time and energy to buy Carlton’s new album is absolutely worth it.