Yuna - Nocturnal

Here is what I thought of Yuna's new album, “Nocturnal.” Remember – all scores are out of a possible 10 points.

“Falling” - Light and airy, I felt like she is serving a little Susanne Vega. I like the tone of her voice and the pop music was, well, music to my ears. Score: 8

“Mountains” - I am having a bad day today. This song not only got me out of my funk, it made me slink around like a cat. Sultry and smooth, this is exactly what I needed today. The vocals are heavenly and the music is soothing combining for a fabulous mix. Score: 9

“Rescue” - A very upbeat and sunshiny track. It reminded me of “Suddenly I See” - its THAT sunshiny. If you are a woman – or a gay man – who is dealing with struggles and self doubt, this track is for you. You are going to be OK. If you don't feel good after listening to this track you may need professional help. Score: 9

“Lights And Camera” - Meh – filler. This song really doesn't do anything for me, but it was nice to hear. Score: 5

“Lovely Intermission” - A beautiful love song – of sorts. I love how her voice just floats over the lyrics. The tempo felt a bit slow, but overall a nice job. Score: 8

“Someone Who Can” - A throwaway track. Nothing memorable on this one. The voice is good, but why wouldn't it be? Next. Score: 4

“I Want You Back” - This is a well written pop song with a decent chorus. I liked it better than most tracks on this album, but I think I am starting to build up a resistance to her voice. I need more – give me more. Score: 7

“Come Back” - I asked of it and I got it. This arrangement is the meatiest of any track so far. The chorus is what made this track enjoyable. I wish they would amp up the music to match the quality of her beautiful voice on other songs. Score: 8

“Colors” - I can easily hear this track on Y-98FM. Mature enough for the moms, catchy enough for the kids. My favorite track thus far of the album. Score: 9

“I Wanna Go” - The chorus is what saved this song from boredom. I was addicted to how her voice plays with the words and the rhythms. One listen and you will get what I am saying. Nice enough song, just not one of my faves. Score: 7

“Escape” - At first I was totally into the sexy vibe of this song – very Sade. I was even thinking about calling up my husband and telling him to take the rest of the day off – wink. But then the rest of the song happened and I lost my – motivation. The arrangement on this song was just odd – so odd it bothered me. What a shame – from sexy time to just plain annoying. Score: 5

“Hanging On” - This is the first of three “bonus” tracks and now I know why. This track is just kind of boring. I starting thinking about other things while listening to it because it didn't hold my attention. Score: 4

“Bravest Everything” - Another sexy, sleek track. Overall the track is enjoyable, but nothing overly memorable. Score: 8

“Call Everyone” - I was thinking this track was going to be amazing – just a soft melody and that voice. But all I got was bored. The crescendo of the song never materialized and the song felt disjointed. Score: 3

Average Track Score: 6.7 Would I recommend this to my friends? Probably – but just the highlights. Some of these songs are really done well, but the album overall was just OK.

Escalader,

Jim