American singer-songwriter and pianist, Sara Bareilles, released her fourth full-length studio album this summer called The Blessed Unrest. Bareilles decided to go in a different direction with her fourth album. Although her other albums achieved success, this album is not simply filled with the same types of songs all over again but instead includes some fresh and new sounds. After moving from California to New York, Bareilles used the complete coast change to her advantage.
The Blessed Unrest features new collaborations, such as co-writing with artist Jack Antonoff from the band “Fun.” for the lead single “Brave”. The song made it to number 2 on the Billboard 200 list as well as number 20 on the Digital Songs chart. The upbeat anthem is about stepping out of your comfort zone and doing something you always wanted to do. It touches on having the courage and confidence to be yourself and not caring about what anybody else says. As Bareilles sings in the chorus, “Say what you wanna say and let the words fall out! Honestly, I wanna see you be brave!” you’ll want to chant out the words with her.
This album has a great balance of Bareilles’ old and new styles. Many songs channel her previous work with unique qualities that fans anticipate, while other songs showcase the progress she has made. The second single from the album is “I Choose You” which is a catchy, romantic song with lyrics like, “My whole heart will be yours forever. This is a beautiful start to a lifelong love letter.” How sweet! “Hercules” starts out with a regular pop music pulse, but then the chorus changes so drastically from the verse in a graceful fashion.
“Manhattan” is a soft piano ballad with the emotional side of her music that fans have come to know and love. The song speaks of being torn between two different places. In contrast, “Chasing the Sun” is a radio-ready song filled with deep lyrics that will make listeners think. “Little Black Dress” has an infectious beat with encouraging words about getting over a break-up and moving on to bigger and better things. Overall, this album shows the talent Bareilles has already as well as the growth she has made as an artist. There are types of songs returning fans will recognize, and some they won’t, which will keep them coming back for more.
Bareilles’ voice is raw and beautiful. She has an unbelievablyerange and she really sings from the soul. In addition, all of her songs are filled with thoughtful lyrics worth listening to. Her lyrics will make you want to dance, cry, smile or sing, but that just proves her voice has such a powerful range. While Bareilles is not completely unknown in the music scene, she is definitely underrated.
Her most popular breakthrough singles include “Love Song” and “King of Anything” while my personal favorite is “Gravity”. Be sure to check out her new album as well as past ones Careful Confessions, Little Voice, and Kaleidoscope Heart.
Photo Credits: http://www.sarabmusic.com/music/