Admit it… it’s been a heck of a long time since you heard the name ‘Jennifer Paige’, right?
This is a review about a new Jennifer Paige album ‘Starflower’.
I know, I remember her one big song ‘Crush’ too – who doesn’t? But after that song, there wasn’t much else that hit the mainstream for Jennifer.
It’s 2017 (nearly 20 years since her debut album was released) and she’s back with a new album. And it’s quite a mature affair.
If you were hoping for a flashback to the ’90s, hold on for the new Steps album out this Friday instead; this is classy, mature pop music on display.
Brought to life by a Kickstarter campaign, ‘Starflower’ curates some of the great sounds and concepts from the pop world today for Jennifer and connects to stories that are relevant to her (and ultimately her fans too).
I’d like to highlight the songwriting here first. The songs are personal and extremely well written. She sings about love, the challenges of relationships and of love and life in general. You feel like you’ve had a chance to have an afternoon coffee with Jennifer and she’s telling you what’s going on.
Doing this mostly independently has also meant she’s had the freedom to express herself however she pleased.
Lead single ‘The Devil’s In The Detail’ is among my favourites on this collection of tracks. It’s heavy on synths, is brooding and very catchy.
In fact the first three songs all kick things off spectacularly, with ‘Forget Me Not’ and ‘Let Me Love You’ following suit. They make for a great introduction to what the rest of the album has to offer.
There aren’t any big club bangers here, but it feels right.
I love a good comeback and while these tunes might not be lighting the modern charts on fire, this is an album worth paying attention to.
Jennifer Paige is a talented songwriter and singer and the quality of her work remains high.
I like it a lot. You might say it’s just a little crush.
VERDICT : 4/5.
MUST LISTEN : The Devil’s In The Detail, Forget Me Not, Let Me Love You, To The Madness.
Troy says
Can’t believe you reviewed this one! Hell yes I know it. I have followed her since Crush. Wish her albums came out in Oz physically. Great review.
auspOp says
We’ll pass your kind thoughts onto David. ;)