1001 Albums Summary

She has a way of capturing pain that is tongue in cheek, and dismissive but has underlying tones of self awareness. She is aware of her shortcomings, but is always sassy and poignant in delivery. As I am 27 I listen to this now, it highlights behaviors in myself. When I listen to her it reminds me to face them head on, with wit, charisma and poise. She captures all of these elements while still being rugged, “unladylike” and outspoken. She created her own version of femininity that’s as compelling as her vocal delivery and creativity. Everyone knows the hits on “Back to Black” but listening to some of the lesser adored tracks the pieces of her story begin to fall into place. You really see her struggle with addiction, relationships both romantic, familial and otherwise. She wears her heart on her sleeve, aggressively. Her haunting vocals can sometimes overshadow the content and context of what her lyrics are about. When you stop to pay attention, the songs are adorned with hauntingly beautiful storytelling and laced with humor to cut through the black veil. 5/5