Customer Reviews

Play to Win

5 star:		(5)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
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1 star:		(0)

 

 

This album is a treat from start to finish. Gabrielle has always told great stories through her song lyrics and this album continues the trend, only the songs have become even more touching and deeply personal.

From "Ten Years Time" where she asks someone to ponder their situation in life to the triumphant "Play To Win" (probably her finest song ever) where she pleads with someone to stay determined and hopeful in spite of life complications, and the poignant "Fallen Angel" where she tries to help someone shake their demons to see their potential and validity in life, Gabrielle does not hold back on this record.

Her voice sounds incredible throughout and the musical arrangements could induce tears of joy from the beautiful sounds they create. Although this album is definitely more low key than her past releases, this is likely a reflection of where Gabrielle was in her life when writing and recording the album (fresh off a highly successful third album and Greatest Hits album and tour) and wanting to take things down a notch. Some stunning downtempo moments include the introspective "Sometimes" (which also features in Bridget Jones 2: The Edge of Reason) as well as the heartbreaking "You Used To Love Me", the affirmative "No Big Deal" and the compelling "Tumbling Down" which addresses peace conflict in the world.

The album also has tinges of country throughout, and several uptempo moments including the Cure-sounding "Stay the Same" (also a bit of a testament to Gabrielle's commitment to quality music) and the glorious hidden track "Letting Go" (also the bside to the Stay the Same single).

This album is indeed a win and will touch your heart for years to come, as will any item within Gabrielle's stunning back catalogue.

This album has had a lukewarm reception and I can't understand why! It is one of those albums that the more you listen to it the more you love it. Just put it on, lie down and listen to the lyrics you'll be amazed at how many chords it strikes in your mind. For anyone that has gone through a break up you'll be touched by the simplicity of the emotions and little everyday situations described by Gabrielle in the songs.

Stand out Tracks "Play to Win" "Fallen Angel" and "Picking Up The Pieces"

There are 13 new and beautiful performances here. If you are a fan of Gabrielle, know that what's consistent is the pleasure it is to hear this voice and the music. You will hear gentle nods to country in the melodies but this is pop at it's finest.

Another great edition to a body of work, most times over looked by the masses. She's like the undercover lover, once you get it you want to keep it to yourself. But she's an artist that needs to see the light of day. She's a storyteller for the times we live in and beyond. I compare her to UB40, for once there music gets it's hook in ya...your done for. Nothing ever really sound the same again...and that's a good thing. That means your mind has been touched and expanded. From the music files of Diva' 2010/Luv to all

Though she made a small blip on the pop radar stateside in the early '90s with "Dreams", that's was pretty much the last heard from Gabrielle around these parts, despite releasing two additional albums(yes, here in the states), and remaining rather significant in her native UK. PLAY TO WIN pretty much continues in the vein of her previous RISE, with alot of the tracks framed by acoustic guitars and instruments that wouldn't sound out of place on a country record("You Used To Love Me" springs to mind). Musically, the set is probably her strongest to date as far as quality goes--first single "Stay The Same", as well as "Sometimes", "Fallen Angel", and "No Big Deal" all match any of her previous bests("Dreams", "Sunshine"). Granted, the singer's continued low-key approach isn't going to set your stereo speakers on fire, but it's nonetheless comforting to know that some things don't, and probably never will, change.

'Dreams' made Gabrielle a household name many years ago and ever since she has been dishing up a unique soulful sound to cherish. Guitar and piano driven ballads drive this album, with a touch of country and a whole lotta soul. Its a winner.
'Ten years time', 'latch-key kid' and 'fallen angel' are the standout tracks but they all have something to offer. This album wont be huge but it deserves to be. Great stuff.