By Geselle Martinez |Staff Writer|
Kimbra is a star on the rise and her new album, Vows, proves that she is destined to be on top of the charts. The 21-year-old singer from New Zealand is better known for her guest appearance on Gotye’s single, “Somebody I Used to Know.” The single was #1 in 10 countries.
Vows is an album filled with mixed genre glossy pop, whimsical soul and fulfilling jazz renditions that show Kimbra’s own writing is something to behold.
While “Somebody I Used to Know” was a bitter break up song, Vows is the complete opposite. The album could be described as her personal love confessions. “I wanna raise a child/Won’t you raise a child with me,” she sings on “Settle Down.”
“Settle Down” is upbeat and layered with vocals and hand claps, incorporating more sound throughout the chorus. “Settle Down” and “Cameo Lover” are the album’s best pop songs. “Cameo Lover” is pure pop joy with cheery hooks that you can sing along with.
“Cause everyday’s like talking in your sleep/love is like a silhouette in dreams open up you heart,” Kimbra sings in “Cameo Lover.” “Open up your heart/open up your heart and let me pull you out/everyday’s like talking in you sleep love is like a silhouette in dreams open up you heart.”
“Two-Way Street” is a sweet, slow burning love song. “Good Intent” is more jazzy with Kimbra getting her trademark cabaret voice out, which is an ever-present theme throughout the album.
“Old Flame” is a little more brooding as the tempo gradually increases. When you hear the lyrics, you can tell the song is about a past lover.
The bonus track, “Warrior,” gives off an ’80s feel with old school beats. Kimbra is one of those artists who can sing in any genre with her versatile voice. Her musical style and voice makes Vows so enjoyable, giving the listener hope about love.
“It’s an eclectic mix of songs and explores the themes surrounding the making of promises and the breaking of them.” Kimbra said in interview with Idolater. “I wanted to experiment on this album and try to delve into as many different musical impulses and influences that felt right in conveying the appropriate emotion. It has some darker moments, but ultimately I think it’s an uplifting record, from the soul and for the soul.”
In the interview with Idolater, Kimbra said her influences for the album included Prince, Rufus Wainwright, The Dirty Projectors, The Bird and The Bee and D’Angelo.
“I tried to listen to as much music as possible when writing this record — the challenge was to bring these influences together in a way that felt distinct and truthful,” she said. “I also watched a lot of Disney films while making this album and drew influence from old films.”
Kimbra has established herself with an amazing album. She has shown that she has a voice and has proven musically she can outshine many of today’s female artists.