#42: Ingrid Michaelson - Human Again (2011)

Ingrid is one of my absolute favotrites. In her past albums she employed more of a singer/songwriter feel to it, with a lot more acoustic tracks, and even some cheeky/cheesy lyrics at times. She's a great songwriter but she's becoming a pro at putting together top notch albums. It's been a gradual process to get to where she is today and while I love her previous works, she's really coming into her own. I absolutely adore where she is and where she's heading.

Fire
Very quick strings add urgency, but there's a odd calming effect apparent in the song while the sparse drums and big hits keep you on your toes which leads perfectly into the chorus. It's poppy, it's catchy, it rocks, and it's full of emotion - it mixes a whole lot in the pot. It's a track that shows considerable growth from her past albums and hopefully it's a glimpse of what's to come.

End of the World
Such a simple concept, and while the lyrics are good - it's the music and the weight it carries (coupled with Ingrid's powerful performance) that pushes the track over the edge. The live version she posted is just her and a piano and somehow it even has more impact. "At the end of the world will you find me? So that we can go together?" Strings, guitar, bass, drums, and a little piano consistently add more and more layers which creates waves of emotion for the best written song on the album.

Save Me
This is my favorite song on the album. It's not afraid to do something different. Synths add in to a quick guitar and it's the chorus I live for. 'Save Me, why don't you save me tonight?" The bass carries the song to create a very memorable song. It's fun, it's a little cooky, and it's extremely entertaining. It's the perfect song to follow 'End of the World' and that's how most of the album is. It shows you something awesome and then shows you something different.

All in all, this album is full of really solid tracks. I wouldn't hesitate to spotlight any one of them over the others. They have different feels, ideas, and sensibilities that keep the listener engaged throughout. My favorite moment of the record is the bridge on 'In the Sea'. The album is full of very cool moments, especially in context of the entire song. Ingrid is one of the best artists out there right now and it's a shame she's not more popular. With this album she's proven that she's only going to get better.

Tomorrow's album: Marty Robbins' Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs.