4) Ella Henderson 'Chapter One'
At first it's almost questionable why I'd place an album deriving from the Simon Cowell domain of music among my annual favourites. The self-preservative music mogul known for following trends instead of actually leading them, the tycoon who markets his acts to a less discerning public down to greed, the man notorious for drowning out any real individuality from his artists rather than defining a new sound. You would be fair to think this record was just another product in the assembly line of pop stars, his talent shows fabricate but I can assure you this time things were different, Chapter One is anything but manufactured rubbish.
Ella Henderson, the eighteen year old musician fronting the record was given all the creative freedom and control she deserved with this collection, with writing credits on every song but Glow on the LP, it has an identity and integrity behind it.
Sampling pop, rhythm and blues into an album filled with beautifully crafted, empowering songs. She's managed to carve out her own niche in a market already dominated by young female vocalists. The gripping choruses, the mid-tempo power ballads, the retro sixties vibe present on particular tracks are each triumphs. But it's the stripped back production of the soft piano ballads I love most that bring out all the emotion and soul within this masterpiece.
Her voice itself is probably her best tool. Spell bounding and soaring vocals that could put the legends to shame. A punchy, soulful vocal power filled with dramatic emotion that will play on your heartstrings whether you like it or not. She's packed plenty of power and energy into these tracks, a workmanship and technique that cannot be faked.
It's a really solid debut, she effortlessly proves sometimes shows like The X Factor can birth a superstar. Considering she's still only eighteen years old demonstrates what true artistry we are dealing with. She's a genuine talent and the most exciting thing of all is I know we still haven't seen the best in her yet.
Favourite Tracks: Empire, The First Time, All Again, Pieces
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