Leona Lewis

In short – YES… it is rather!

Expectations were always going to ridiculously high for ‘Echo’, album number 2 by Leona Lewis after selling over 6million copies of debut album ‘Spirit’.

It’s rather marvellous… as a whole album it takes a couple of listens to really begin to love the songs, which, are strong, well written and well produced. Leona’s voice soars and shines brightly - it’s better than ever this time around. ‘Echo’ is a strong, mature and confident album.

The album mainly takes place in med-tempo territory with the occasion slow big ballad and up-tempo banger. Current single ‘Happy’ kicks things off in fine style, followed by ‘I Got You’, which is an easy sing-a-long track and an obvious contender for a single release. ‘Outta My Head’ is the most up-beat Leona song, she sounds great and it is an interesting style for her. ‘My Hands’ and ‘Love Letter’ are particular highlights. The cover version of the Oasis hit ‘Stop Crying Your Heart Out’ is given the ‘Run’ treatment. Whilst, hidden track ‘Stone Hearts & Hand Grenades’ is beautiful.

Give this album a go… try not to compare it to ‘Spirit’, forget album sales and chart positions and judge it on it’s own merits and everyone will be better off!!!

The incredible Leona Lewis performed at the final of America’s Got Talent last night and gave a stunning performance of her latest single ‘Happy’. The video introduction montage sends shivers down my spine – she really IS that good and has come such a  long way since The X-Factor. The performance is simple yet effective and really shows off her vocal range to its finest.