Kristy is an industry veteran with ten years experience under her belt, but remains a relative unknown. So what kind of impact will her new album ‘Favourite Things’ have on the pop world on its release on May 20?
When I was asked to review this album, I was a bit hesitant at first; it was an independent release by a singer-songwriter; two elements that could have created a bit of a disaster. Thankfully this album is a pleasant surprise.
Spending time in Nashville to create the album, the country-pop crossover sound is prevalent here. The album overall is reminiscent of earlier Taylor Swift and Six Pence None The Richer albums which, although not groundbreaking, seems to work for Kristy.
The songs here are, on the whole, quite enjoyable, but a fair few travel down the road of “fromage” due to hokey lyrics and sickly sweet melodies. Kristy also dives into some very country territory, which isn’t a bad thing, but means the album feels a little bit disjointed.
Having said that, there are a few gems.
‘Free Wind’ is catchy, radio friendly and easily my favourite from the album. I feel like it captures the essence of Kristy perfectly and is where I wish more of this album had headed.
‘Super Power’ is another great song and something you’d easily hear on the radio. There’s a version with a rap, but I prefer the original version best.
Another highlight is ‘In My Heart’; a mid-tempo track that is enjoyable and is relatable.
But despite the highlights, there are also a few clunkers on the LP that just don’t say “pop” to me. The messages are borderline soppy on ‘Calling All You Wanted Angels’ and ‘Garbage Man’ enters Christian pop territory (which isn’t a bad thing, it’s just not what I expected based on the press release).
While the album is only 12 tracks long, it feels a bit bloated; there are a few tracks that could possibly have been reconsidered for inclusion.
I’m not one to dish out career advice (I haven’t much pop star experience myself), but I feel like ‘Favourite Thing’ should have been an EP instead of an album.
Kristy has a collection of great tracks, but there aren’t enough of them here to carry an entire album.
An EP would have been a powerful way to make a statement and perhaps give her more time to create a pop-friendly long player.
VERDICT : 3/5.
MUST LISTEN : Free Wind, Super Power, In My Heart.
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