Customer Reviews

Be Not Nobody

5 star:		(217)
4 star:		(90)
3 star:		(42)
2 star:		(38)
1 star:		(41)

 

 

Vanessa Carlton may seem unsuspecting in a world where your ability to dance and the lightness of your hair defines you as a musician. Seated firmly behind her piano in her debut video "A Thousand Miles," Vanessa didn't impress me much (I viewed her as teen music marketing gone awry). I bought the album on impulse, not expecting to like it much. I have now completely worn out my first copy.

I am just so proud of this talented young woman for begging to be different from everyone else. She does what the pop industry is terrified of.. she's herself. No elaborate vocals or gyrating to an infectious beat. Beautiful, smooth, sultry and expressive melodies laced with a unique and elegant-sounding voice.

It's a very impressing combination.

The album is terrific from stop to finish. Here are the songs:

Ordinary Day: It has an ethereal and interesting message of spontaneity and chasing down dreams. It's upbeat and somewhat classical sounding. *****

Unsung: Written in the style of good old days rock, Vanessa powerfully belts out "well you decide and I abide and my song goes unsung." She expresses her feelings of inferiority in the relationship in this track. The vocals and strong backbeat make it an interesting contrast with the rest of the album. ****

A Thousand Miles: The keys employed and the melody combination are signs of sheer brilliance. The lyrics aren't spectacular, but the piano more than compensates. *****

Pretty Baby: It has a catchy bridge, but is simply not my thing. **

Rinse: My second favorite of the album. "She must rinse him away" because her feeling for the boy described in the song are unhealthy for the girl. It's a typical scenario but Vanessa's lyrics make it fresh again (how she'd be soothed/how she'd be saved if he could see/ she needs to be held in his arms to be free) *****

Sway is the drag of the album. I always skip it. *

Paradise is sheer brilliance. The girl described in the song is fighting an internal conflict with herself even though she's in "paradise." It could also be seen as an end-of-life thing("One last chance to feel all right"), but I don't think that's what Vanessa was going for. The lyrics are vague and could be perceived differently by different people, the smoothness of the melody and emotion of Vanessa's voice make it impossible to deny this song. I like the digitalization used in this song, though some people seem to think it drags down the album. *****

Prince: Not great, not terrible. ***

Paint It Black: This is one of the best cover songs I've heard in years. Her voice is bursting with emotion and power as she pounds through the song with passion and varying tempos. *****

Wanted: Unlike any other song I've heard, Vanessa continues her mysterious and personal lyrics (I am more than you will see/more than wanted). This is an all-out girl power anthem -quieter than Alanis Morissette. *****

Twilight: is absolutely beautiful and poignant. With its evasively smooth and substantial lyrics, Vanessa bravely sings that she's "seen twilight" since meeting the supposed boyfriend. I imagine it's technically a ballad, but this song is so much more than an "Oh baby baby" boy-crazy song or syrupy boy band puddle of badly rhyming word combinations. (I recently heard the lyric "you are all I need to love because you're not like the others/not a dud." I swear, it's true!) Vanessa brings honor back into singing ballads. *****

Vanessa redefines what music's going to be in coming years. She is commonly compared to Michelle Branch but I have absolutely no reason why. Her songs are so entirely different from Michelle Branch's it's ridiculous. Michelle is a rocker and Vanessa seems more like a lite jazz or pop/rock singer. She is not Alicia Keys- Vanessa's songs have substance and don't rely on whining through the aforementioned love/dud rhyming schemes.

There is no other singer like Vanessa Carlton out there right now and that's why she's one of my picks for Best New Artist of 2002.

Vanessa Carlton's new album, Be Not Nobody, is nothing short of incredible. From the opening chords of "Ordinary Day" to the last trailing notes of "Twilight", Be Not Nobody is an album you won't be able to turn off.

Vanessa's amazing voice, stunning lyrics, and awesome piano playing make her seem much older than her 21 years. This album promises to make Vanessa a household name, but more than that, it plainly shows that she is more than just a young female singer-songwriter. She is a talented musician and that is evidenced by every note of every song on Be Not Nobody.

This album has ten original songs written by Vanessa and one cover. The ninth track on the album is an awesome cover of the Rolling Stones' "Paint It Black". "Pretty Baby" is a total fan favorite and it's easy to see why. The melody and lyrics are so incredible! Other songs like "Unsung", "Sway", and "Paradise" promise to become favorites as well. "A Thousand Miles" is already a hit, having just recently reached the top ten on the Billboard Countdown. The next single, "Ordinary Day", is sure to do the same. Each of these songs speaks to the listener in a different way. Part of the beauty of this album is the way everyone can relate to it. My personal favorites are "Rinse" and "Twilight", but honestly, I would not be able to name a song that I didn't like. In each of the songs, the combination of lyrics and music is so awesome that it's impossible not to fall in love with this album.

Be Not Nobody is a breath of fresh air in a world that is bogged down by teeny-bopper, pre-packaged pop. The music is just so much more real. You should definitely buy this album, you will not be disappointed!

I always base my judgement of how good a CD is by its replay value. Therefore, Vanessa Carlton's CD gets five stars cause of it's high replay value. It's awesome. I can honestly see myself still listening to this months from now. I'll go through a brief rating of the songs. My personal faves are marked by asteriks.

1-Ordinary Day: Great opener to the ablum, I could even relate to it. B+

2-*Unsung*: This song is quite a rocker. Fast and emotional. A+.

3-*A Thousand Miles*: The first smash single. Of course, A.

4-Pretty Baby: A sweet, slow pop song. It kinda gets overshadowed by the first 3 great songs but it has a special value and beat. B-.

5-*Rinse*: Vanessa's voice is good here. I love the lyrics. A

6-*Sway*: Vanessa voice sways perfect. A.

7-*Paradise*: Dark with a sorrowful melody almost. Beautiful. A+.

8-Prince: Nice lyrics and instrumentals. B-

9-*Paint it Black*: I've never heard the original by Jagger, but Vanessa's is excellent. A+

10-*Wanted*: Her piano playing is really good here to me at least. A

11-*Twilight*: Soft and beautiful. A+.

This sparkling, promising debut from Vanessa Carlton is a great listen from start to finish. All of the songs, with the except of the rocking cover of "Paint It Black," were written by Vanessa herself, who lends her vocals and piano to every track. She is accompanied by a band of talented musicians, and the orchestra arrangements are simply beautiful. Four stars to this stellar album.

The first track "Ordinary Day" begins with a girl and her piano. Very simple, very basic - and then as the song progresses, as the story develops, more instruments come in and help the tune build to a full sound. "Day" is one of many songs on the album that will make you look up at the night sky with renewed appreciation.

"Unsung" is one part rock, one part jazz. This track, with piano akin to Tori Amos or Fiona Apple, is at the opposite end of the spectrum from "Day." Already we hear that Vanessa has a range of song styles.

"A Thousand Miles," the first single, has become a hit in its own right. From the catchy chorus ("If I could fall / Into the sky / Do you think time / Would pass me by?") to the emotional refrain, the song will get you hooked. It flows well into the next song, "Pretty Baby," which is the most mainstream pop song on the album. "Pretty baby / Don't you leave me / I have been saving smiles for you." It is a nice romantic ballad without being too sugary sweet.

"Rinse" may very well be my favorite song on this album. It's louder, it's rougher. The story is not a happy one, reminding us that "...everything happens for reasons that she will never understand." It could be about an unhappy relationship, confining if not abusive. It's a dark melody.

Another steadily moving piece is "Sway," a breath of fresh air, a happy time. Again, we go right into the flip side with "Paradise," about losing hope and giving in. In a word: sad.

"Prince" picks things up again. The lyrics describe running, and the quick, upbeat music lends to that motion. "Willing and able to run..." Undoubtedly another standout track. The fury continues with the cover of "Paint It Black." Rolling Stones fans will like this new take on an old classic.

Longing is expressed throughout "Wanted" -- "I am more than you will see / I am more than you will need / I am more than you will see / More than wanted." The rolling piano is beautiful; you will want to set this song on repeat for that alone.

The album ends with "Twilight," which begins with a hollow, empty feeling and turns into strength and belief. This emotional album ends with an optimistic note: "And I will never see the sky the same way / And I will learn to say good-bye to yesterday / And I will never cease to fly is held down / And I will always reach too high 'cause I've seen / 'Cause I've seen / Twilight."

"Be Not Nobody," the debut effort of promising artist Vanessa Carlton, is filled with heartfelt lyrics and enchanting melodies. Vanessa's unique voice and style reflect that of some of the most accomplished female performers, and it is utterly amazing that a 21-year old wrote all of these wonderful songs, except for the rockin' cover of the Stone's "Paint It Black."

1. Ordinary Day - This is, perhaps, the best song on the album. Vanessa shows off awesome vocals and plays the piano very well here. ~ A
2. Unsung - At first listen, I did not particularly care for this song, but as time went on it grew on me. ~ B
3. A Thousand Miles - First cut off the album. This ties with Ordinary Day for best song. ~ A
4. Pretty Baby - Probably the poppiest tune. It is very sweet however, and Vanessa's talent shines through. ~ B+
5. Rinse - Vanessa's vocals are emotional here and I noticed the piano very often in this song. Very, very good. ~ A -
6. Sway - This song is good, but it doesn't distiniguish itself from others, especially "Paradise." ~ B
7. Paradise - This, again, is good, but it sounds like "Sway." ~ B
8. Prince - This reminds me of "Ordinary Day," but isn't as refreshing. ~ B-
9. Paint it Black - This is awesome. I do not see how someone could not like this song. It rocks! ~ A-
10. Wanted - Reminiscent of "Rinse," but, it has a life of it's own. Vanessa showcases great vocals again. ~ A
11. Twilight - Mellow way to end the record. It is light and refreshing (as is most of the CD.) ~ A

Overall, Vanessa Carlton sounds self-assured and I believe she will be around for long time! For a first album, this is superb! Overall: A

I love this album. I can't stop listening to it. Here's a short summary of the songs:

"Ordinary Day"--Amazing. With her lyrics you can actually *see* her talking to the boy in the song, waking up and wondering if it's a dream... It's an inspiring, uplifting song.

"Unsung"--The opposite of Ordinary Day. She's upset, but coping well, about an unrequited love. Very fast and not your typical sad song.

"1000 Miles"--longing for a love that she can't see. Although if you're looking at her album reviews, you should know this one.

"Pretty Baby"--Not a typical song. It's a cute love song with no overdone sweetness. But there *is* a twist at the bridge...

"Rinse"--I LOVE THIS SONG. She loves someone who she can't love. Very haunting; it stays with you long after it's over.

"Sway"--Kind of arabian, kind of melodic. But nevertheless very catchy. Again, a bad love.

"Paradise"--Next to Rinse, this is my favorite also. Ever wonder how people can be sad when they seem to have "everything"? That's what this song is sort of about. "And it's one more day in paradise/One more day in paradise..."

"Prince"--Like mentioned before, this song's melody matches the lyrics about running. Addictive.

"Paint it Black"--I love this one too. It reminds me of the POV of a Goth girl that people just stereotype.

"Wanted"--Think 1000 Miles' piano was fast? Try this one. Unbelievable. Longing. Hope. Very astonishing song.

"Twilight"--Just listen. I love the chorus.

So get this album, and listen to it over and over again. It's unbelievable...

Vanessa Carlton made an unassuming debut last year, with her song "A Thousand Miles" tacked on to the soundtrack to the film "Legally Blonde." The movie becomes a hit, the soundtrack does not, yielding poorly performing singles by Hoku and Samantha Mumba, among other included popsters. Then, earlier this year, after the flop of all the film's support singles, comes "A Thousand Miles" on MTV. It picked up steam, and it became a massive hit, in the wake of Michelle Branch's breakthrough with the songs "Everywhere" and "All You Wanted". Following the catchy ballad was this, an album that is odd parts Tori Amos, Chantal Kreviazuk, and the previously mentioned Branch. Despite taking these artists lead in style, she's her own in sound, yielding an almost completely self written release (only because she chose to include an excellent cover version of the Rolling Stones "Paint It Black"). I can honestly say, I don't skip a single track on the album, something that's rare, even with the best of albums. Her voice is unique, her songs very enjoyable. My personal favorites of this freshman set are the two singles, the afformentioned "Miles", and the current release "Ordinary Day", and the tracks "Pretty Baby", "Sway", "Wanted", and that lovely Stones cover version. A great debut album, I have high hopes for an excellent sophmore album to follow at some point. Great job, Vanessa.

Music fans everywhere were patiently waiting for Vanessa Carlton's debut album to drop. They had no choice, because "A Thousand Miles" came out way back in January (at least), yet this album didn't come out until almost four months later. That was worrying some people because many times when a female artist pushes an album back that far, the end result isn't that outstanding. Fortunately, that's not the case here.

Be Not Nobody is an interesting album full of inventive singing, creative lyrics and, of course, Vanessa's exceptional piano work. The rhythmic "Unsung" is your basic how-do-I-tell-him-how-I-feel song, and "Twilight" is a rather emotional tale of the end result when she doesn't reveal her true feelings. "Paradise" is similar to "Twilight" except it's about another woman's lost chance, while a mellow feel-sorry-for-yourself message can be found in "Paint It Black". Also be sure not to miss the cool melody of the best track, "Pretty Baby".

The music is something else that shouldn't be ignored. Vanessa especially shines on "Wanted" (where the man thinks she's too good for him), but all instruments work well together on the catchy "Sway", where the synthesizer is rediscovered.

One thing people should keep in mind is that Vanessa's singing should not be taken lightly. Because of this, some people may argue that she can't sing. But with this style of music, you have to remember that there's a little bit of rock mixed in. With that said, you should go get this album.

You might know Vanessa Carlton from her video for "A Thousand Miles."
After hearing her album "Be Not Nobody" I can tell you that there is
a lot more to the talent you heard on her single. If you haven't heard
the album yet, please permit me to give you a brief guided tour.

It opens with "Ordinary Day." This may be one of the best songs on
the album. If you liked her first single you will probably like this
reflective song as well. This is reported to be the next single from
the album, and it sounds like a hit to me!

"Unsung" is a really different sound for Vanessa. It has a folksy,
rock and roll sound to it. Don't worry, I think you will like this
one too. She once again demonstrates her talent by her musical range.

"Pretty Baby" is what I would consider a ballad. I could see it
being a single, but it is a slower song, so it might not get the air
play that it deserves. This is a song that true fans will love.

Did you know that Vanessa has a dark side? I don't mean dark as in
evil, I mean dark as in deep. The songs "Sway", "Paradise",
and "Prince" all have a lyrical depth and emotion that will be sure
to touch you.

Vanessa can rock! She does a cover of the Rolling Stones "Paint it
Black." Don't worry if you don't likeolder music like the Stones
put out, I think you will still love this rendition. While this
song has been covered by many artists over the years, Vanessa
Carlton's version is among the best. I couldn't get her version out
of my head all day yesterday!

"Wanted" and "Twilight" close out the album in a quiet and reflective
way. You probably know "Twilight" as the B-side of "A Thousand
Miles."

All in all a fantastic album! You will not be disappointed. Be sure
to spread the word!

Vanessa Carlton delivers a fresh mix of classic piano skills, mixed with main-stream pop, along with some hard-rock. A very interesting, yet very entertaining mix for Vanessa Carlton's debut "Be Not Nobody". Carlton possesses amazing piano skills, and she is NO Britney. Vanessa Carlton brings a new lift to the music world, and this album proves it. Every tarck on this CD is enjoyable, and most excellent. The piano playing on all of these tracks (except for the Rolling Stone's cover of "Paint It Black") which I admit is one of the best tracks on the CD, the piano is unbelievably played. The accuracy, the sound, everything is phenomenal. Vanessa Carlton combines great music, great lyrics, and a great look to make a world-wide success. Every track I love, and you will too. Individual Reviess are below:

1. Ordinary Day - (3:58) - "Just a day, just an ordinary day, just trying to get by" is how it all starts. The piano and drums are great on this track, and the vocals are beautiful. The song tells a very interesting story, and it is just a great song. - 5 Stars - A

2. Unsung - (4:20) - A little more towards the "pop" side of the music, but the Piano in the beginning is so cool! The girl can sing, play, and everything else. The song is a very danceable track if you know how to dance to this type of song, and it's just great. The beat is awesome and the singing is fabulous. - 5 Stars - A+

3. A Thousand Miles - (3:57) - This song is one of the best on the album, and totally showcases the piano talent of Vanessa Carlton. The lead-single off the album, it is just utterly catchy. The lyrics are fabulous, the music is incredible, it's just a great song. The piano is amazing, again. - 5 Stars - A++

4. Pretty Baby - (3:55) - One of the three ballads on he album, but this is an enjoyable song. The bat is good with the vocals, and the story of the song is pretty. It'll leave you dancing slowly in your chair, or on the dance-floor. It really is a pretty song. Beautiful! - 4 Stars - A-

5. Rinse - (4:31) - A little on the harder edge of the music-base, and it's got a good story, but the vocals seem to drag on. It seems Vanessa is whining a bit, and it is gets a little on the annoying side. Not one of the best, but still is a good listen. - 3.5 Stars - B+

6. Sway - (3:57) - This is a great song! It's a great sing-along, and the piano is great. This is more happier, and the story of the song is quite cool. Vanessa sings great on this track, and it became one of my favorites instantly. I love the humming twoards the end and in the middle. I love this! - 5 Stars - A+

7. Paradise - (4:50) - I don't really get it, but this is a slow one, and I LOVE IT! The story of the song is written beautifully, and the vocals are never better! I truly love this song, and I always will. It's anice one to relax to, but if you really listen to the song, it is quite depressing. I truly love this song. - 5 Stars - A++

8. Prince - (4:09) - A lot of drums in this one. It's still cool though. The lyrics are catchy, and easy to memorize. The piano and the cowbell are cool in the beginning, and the vocals are great. The song has a sotry, I really just can't figure it out. I still like it. - 4 Stars - A-

9. Paint It Black - (3:30) - A cover of the old Rolling Stone's song, and it is literally , the best of the album. It's a harder song than the rest of them, but Vanessa does it well. The beat is very cool, drums are awesome, and the vocals are great. Th dragging of the vocals by Vanessa sounds fabulous and just adds to the fun of this track. I really think this is the best track on the CD! - 5 Stars - A+++

10. Wanted - (3:54) - It really only sounds like Vanessa & the piano. Which, trust me, is beautiful. It has some orchestra, in some spots, but is mostly "piano-apella". LoL. The vocals are haunting, which is scary in a way, but beautiful in another. This song is one of the best as well. - 4.5 Stars - A

11. Twilight - (4:49) - Another slow one that I absolutely love. Vanessa Carlton's vocal styling is beautiful on this track, and the story from the lyrics is cool. The music is a little more cheery, with the piano and orchestra, but it is still technically a ballad. This is a wonderful song. I love this! - 5 Stars - A+

Vanessa Carlton's debut album "Be Not Nobody" delivers a flavor of many musical stylings, vocals are phenomenal, and the piano skills this girl has are utterly amazing. I can't wait for a sophomore album. This album is truly a buy, and you will not regret buying this wonderful album. The album statistics:

Avg. Song Grade: 4.6 Stars
Overall Album Grade: 5 Stars

Rating: A+