Michelle Branch
"Hotel Paper"

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Released: 7th July 2003.

In 2001, seventeen-year-old Michelle Branch wowed audiences the world over with a rather catchy tune by the name of "Everywhere".  The hit track was lifted from her extremely impressive debut record, "The Spirit Room", and now, in 2003, she's released her sophomore album "Hotel Paper", but can it reach the bar - raise it even - of the level of brilliance of her first album?

A strange and unnecessary intro starts the record off, followed by the Avril-esque single "Are You Happy Now?", and then a melodic, catchy number - "Find Your Way Back". The next track, "Empty Handed", is decidedly average, but repeat listens should strengthen its appeal. "Tuesday Morning" is another slice of pop/rock greatness, and there's a touch of Alanis on the heartfelt "One Of These Days".

The duet with Sheryl Crow, "Love Me Like That", is without a doubt, one of the LP's biggest highlights, with slick production, interesting music and strong, sweet vocals from the two women. "Breathe" is a big-catchy-chorus typically Michelle-styled track, which seems likely to be a future single release, and deservedly so. There's also single-quality in the following track, "Where Are You Now?".

The title track, "Hotel Paper" is quite boring, my advice is to use the "Skip" button. It's not a particularly bad song, but its sombre mood makes listening a little harder. Next track is "'Til I Get Over You" and you might want to use the "Skip" button again. Strangely, her very first single, "Everywhere", is featured next. It should be annoying, considering it was from the last album, but it's so good that I don't care!

Closing the record, we have the much-hyped Carlos Santana duet, "The Game Of Life", a fine slice of contemporary pop and a highlight in the careers of both artists. And the final track is a moving, meloncholic ballad in the form of "It's You". It's very short, and features a link from the intro track to end, but it's a nice way to finish the album.

All in all, I'd say Michelle's done a good job at solidifying her status as a serious singer/songwriter with a knack for creating some fine tunes. However, "Hotel Paper" has some weak moments, which take away from the rest of the album. Also, there is a lack of real standout tracks on this record too. "The Spirit Room", with her fresh, eager approach to modern music, was easily a five-star record, "Hotel Paper" however, despite it's charms, is a low four.

Best tracks: "Breathe", "The Game Of Love"
Worst track: "'Til I Get Over You"

(Muzikritik)

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