不准哭/丰华 FORWARD  

REVIEW:

Her versatility was amplified in her debut album, as she juggled with different genres of music then. Similarly in this album, the selection of songs challenges Tong En's vocal capacity and capability. For tracks like [Bei Shang Zuo Ye 悲伤作业] and [Ruo Wu Qi Shi 若无其事], she tends to exert more power in her vocal presentation, giving her voice a rather raw feeling in these soft rock pieces. On the other hand, in tear-jerking ballads such as [Yi Ge Ren Yi Han 一个人遗憾] and [Zai Ni Yan Li 在你眼里] depict a more feminine and delicate side of Tong En. Personally, I prefer the latter, especially her pleasing finishing at the high notes, producing a soothing, lingering sensation in the ears of her listeners. Another favourite of mine in this album goes to [San Dian Ban 三点半], composed by A Guai 阿怪. Folk seems to be the best ingredient to spice up her voice, as we hear her performing this track relaxingly and comfortably. A song suitable to be played on a lazy weekend afternoon. 

With this album, Rebecca has convinced me and most critics that she is a talented singer, however her record sales failed to reflect this thought. Immense competition and piracy has led to disappointing sales, and this was further worsened by the record company's sloppy and poor promotion scheme. 

We can only pray for the release of her next album. [PRJ@2006]

Wed 30/8 [12 NN]: BR225 Arrival

Thurs 31/8 [7 PM]: [Bu Tong Fan Xiang 不同范响] Campus Concert @ NYP

Fri 9/1 [7 PM]: [Bu Tong Fan Xiang 不同范响] Campus Concert @ NTU

舞娘/CAPITOL MUSIC

REVIEW:

The title track [Wu Niang 舞娘] boosted her image as a dancing diva as we awed at her gymnastics performances in this music video. Even though we have seen Madonna and Elva assimilating  yoga and pilates respectively previously in portions of their dance steps, I'm was still impressed by the idea of incorporating rhythmic gymnastics in her dance movements.

This time round, the fate of this album lies in the hands of some of the top-notch producers which Jolin has worked closely with before, such as local musicians, Paul and Peter Lee, and A Di, giving the album a versatile outlook. Overall, I feel that Jolin's latest album is rather pleasant and radio friendly. The album started off with a bang with the opening track [Wan Mei 完美] and the atmosphere was extended with a tinge of indie arrangement in the following track [Wu Niang 舞娘]. [Ma De Li Bu Si Yi 马德里不思议] composed by Hagen Tan, one of the contestants from Channel U's Project Superstar, has such a catchy and light-hearted tune that makes one hum to the melody unknowingly. Her collaboration with Stanley Wang gave us yet another surprise, as [Guai Guai Pai 乖乖牌] ignites the chemistry between them. [Mr Q]'s disco and retro finishing is specially tailored for party animals and playing this song will definitely uplift the mood of any occasion effortlessly. 

On the whole,  Jolin has managed to secure her position in the music scene victoriously with this album. Even though gossips never fails to follow her wherever she goes especially of her relationship with Jay Chou, we should not neglect the fact that her improvements over these years have been tremendous and impressive. Jolin definitely have a bright future ahead of her, at least for the next few years to come. 

一比一/福茂 LINFAIR RECORDS

REVIEW:

She has a strong vocal as compared to most of singers. However, her album sales have always been mediocre and there’s not much breakthrough since her first album  [Fan Fan De Shi Jie 范范的世界]. Her previous albums have always focus on love ballads, which is her strong point. Upon hearing the first hit of her latest album [Jiu Shi Ni 就是你], I thought that her company is finally helping her to explore after areas of music.

[Jiu Shi Ni] is a song arranged as if hearing a live band. Most importantly, the song shows a different Fan Fan, a very funky and playful Fan Fan. It has been a long time since I heard such Fan Fan (ever since her first album). Putting this as the first song, it opens the whole album with a big bang.

Her second hit [Yi Bi Yi 一比一] is composed and produced by David Tao. David Tao has written this song specially for Fan Fan, hoping to unveil some hidden vocal potential in Fan Fan. Well, I can only say that Fan Fan expresses this song well. This song is very radio-friendly, and is able to attract the listeners easily. Overall, it is a nice song.

恋人心中有一首诗/维京音乐 VIRGIN MUSIC

REVIEW:

More emphasis was placed on the invitation of a group of artists, to enhance the quality and content of this album, rather than on Jiang Mei Qi's comeback after a year's break from the music scene. The cover of this album, definitely brings our attention to Jiang Mei Qi's more revealing image too. 

The opening track [Qing Tian Wa Wa 晴天娃娃], was brightly welcomed by the innocent and adorable voice of May Wu, the daughter of well-known musician Sky Wu. Enjoyable and descriptive lyrics, stood out amidst the humble melody of the song. 

In [Na Nian De Qing Shu 那年的情书], the emotive lyrics penned by Yao Qian, accompanied by Rene Liu's captivating recital at the beginning, has successfully set up a nostalgic atmosphere for audiences. Uncomplicated musical arrangements, focused and depended solely on Jiang Mei Qi's attractive and moving vocals to lead listeners down the memory lane, a search for heartfelt relationships in the past. Compared to other artists, the uniqueness and flexibility of Jiang Mei Qi's vocals, has allowed her to stand out, and become noticeable easily.

Adore the arrangement of background vocals of her duet with No Name, [Shi Fou Zhe Jiu Shi Ai Qing 是否这就是爱情], beaming of happiness and sweetness of love. [Shui Hai Xiang Xin 谁还相信], definitely my personal favourite for this album, is filled with apprehensive emotions when falling into the hugs of love. The cello performance at the beginning, leads audiences into a comfortable, a tint of lullaby affected environment. Produced by local musician, Li Wei Song, whom she has worked with previously in her compilation album last year. Taiwanese producer, Jonathan Lee, has also lend his hand in [Jie Mo Bu La 芥末不辣], strumming his forte musical instrument - guitar. Enjoyed Jiang Mei Qi's rock style in the chorus segment, carefree and effortless performance, leaving an unforgettable impression. 

[Wo Xin Shi Hai Yang  我心似海洋] was one of her theme songs for the theatre work which she has participated in during her break from the music scene. For love ballads, she definitely have no problem in melting the hearts of her audiences, with her clear and sentimental vocals. Another dynamic theatrical feel was instilled in [Fu Qing Ni Shi An Jing De 父亲你是安静的]. Dramatic musical experience, orchestral arrangement, strong and steady vocal performance by her, to end the whole album with a powerful impact.

Tap dance arrangement and performance in [Wo Ai Xia Ka Er 我爱夏卡尔] is not a new concept, since it was previously used in Stefanie Sun's [Lu Guang 绿光] which brought about a tap dance trend and craze during the release 4 years ago. Unlike [Lu Guang], Jiang Mei Qi's version is less upbeat, but more cheerful, bringing audiences into a magical fairy tale journey. 

On the whole, each song has a particular distinctive theme which is rather pleasing and compromising when put together. Hopefully her stay in Virgin Music, will allow her to venture into more experimental genres of music, and at the same time, gain recognition and popularity from audiences.

顺时针/丰华 FORWARD/EQ MUSIC (S'PORE)

REVIEW:

Reaching out to her 10th year in her singing career, to mark this remarkable feat, at least it appeals to me, Gigi Leung released her 2nd compilation album to celebrate this achievement. 

It can only be spotted in the movie soundtrack previously, thus it is definitely a wise choice to insert this symbolic track for this upcoming compilation album as well.

[Wo Hen Hai 我很好]: From her 4th album, [Xin Xian 新鲜]

Was affected by her touchy vocal performance, especially the chorus section.  

[Dan Xiao Gui 胆小鬼]: From her 3rd and self-titled album, [Gigi]

Unforgettable and relaxing melody, and easy-to-remember lyrics was well-received by audiences when released. 

{Hua Huo 花火]: From her 6th album, [Armour]

Her composition, with her involvement in the programming tasks as well. We have since then recognised her talents, and in turn, it has also successfully changed our impression of her cover girl image.  

[Dong De Ai Zi Ji 懂得爱自己]; From her debut album, [Duan Fa 短发]

爱疯了/EMI 百代

REVIEW:

HIGHLIGHTS:

Penny's Crazy for Love Autograph Session @ J8 on 2nd JULY

The starting track, Wonderland [You Le Yuan 游乐园], welcomes audiences to Penny's rich and talented musical world. As mentioned in her lyrics: no lies and uncertainties, indeed, is a hard to reach dream in reality, but she hopes that the timeless effort she has sacrificed will be rewarded with the applause of the audiences. The title track, Crazy Love [Ai Feng Le 爱疯了], stunned us with a spectacular piano arrangement, accompanied with her emotional vocal performance. 

Screening through the lyrics she has penned for all 11 songs in this 5th album of hers, Penny hopes to share her life experiences, especially her views on relationships. She hopes to encourage those who have met hiccups in relationships with It's Alright and Live Well [Hao Hao De Guo 好好的过], to move on with life happily even under failing circumstances. Be optimistic, you do have the rights to look on the bright side of life. 

My personal favourite is, Have a Try [Shi Tan 试探], simple yet moving tune have captured my ears on my first encounter. Penny's freestyle of singing, is effortless, yet comfortable and arousing. This form was also portrayed in Amen and Between [Zhi Jian 之间], where she depicted the loneliness felt and helpless situations, for some, when it comes to breaking up with their loved ones. Saddening yet unavoidable.

79 89 99, brings out her yearn to go back to her innocent and carefree childhood and teenagehood days, away from the unnecessary and uninvited attention from the media. This album may sound depressing, but catchy and melodious tunes such as It's You [Jiu Shi Ni 就是你] and Eager to [Hao Xiang 好想], are included as well, to lift up one's spirit and neutralise the uptight atmosphere. 

On a lighter and happier note, I feel that Penny has done well and up to expectations, as a composer, lyricist, producer and musical arranger for this album. The flow of the songs is pleasant and smooth, fulfilling audiences with a wonderful and enriching musical experience. Not forgetting to congratulate Penny as well, for holding her first concert in Taiwan in May successfully.