Think James Blunt, and among the many things that strike one are his high-pitched, feminine voice and depressing, self-deprecating lyrics. The songs from his third studio release, Some Kind Of Trouble, while generously displaying his trademark crooning, has moved away from James’ staple gloomy lyrics towards optimism.
Blunt has tried to give variety to the album by alternating between slow ballads and fast-paced, jaunty tracks. The album’s lead single Stay the Night, a cheerful introduction to the album, is an example of both the James’ new-found optimistic touch and attempt to be sprightly. Another track that fits this bill is No Tears.
Amongst the ‘racy’ songs in the album, So Far Gone and I’ll Be Your Man, have the potential to infect the listener with an earworm. While these tracks are uplifting and positive, Best Laid Plans has a melancholic touch to it.
However, in a lot of places one cannot help but feel a sense of familiarity with the tunes. Pleasing as the songs may be, they fail to impress the listener.
The choruses of a few tracks seem heavily inspired by James’ older hits. Calling Out Your Name feels like a take-off from You’re Beautiful and the lead track Stay the Night reminds one of Jason Mraz’s Im yours.
But, the biggest letdown has to be his Turn Me On, a poor attempt by Blunt to sound sensuous. Neither the lyrics nor the tune elicit whatever mood James intends to kindle.
While, the album may appease the die-hard James Blunt fan, a lot is left to be desired from James to move beyond his You’re Beautiful.