Gabrielle
Rise

THE REVIEW

I remember that in 1993, at the top of the album charts in England, there were two lovely ladies: one was Björk with the colossal "Debut" (3rd place) and the other was Louise Gabrielle Bobb (find your way 1st place). Without attempting to compare the two figures in any way, as they are very different in style and musical territory, I admit that I have followed the careers of both with the same interest and growing admiration. However, since the writings about Björk here, rightly, abound, I'd like to spend a few words on this artist with a rather reserved character who nonetheless has managed to deliver some beautiful songs in her own small way. Songs that I believe will leave a mark on the landscape of European pop music.

When Gabrielle released "Rise," it was already the year 1999, with two albums behind her and a handful of good chart singles like "Dreams", "I Wish", "Forget about the World", "Give Me a Little More Time", and a stunning version of "Walk on By" by Bacharach. Certainly, the big bang hadn't happened yet, but for those with a bit of foresight, it wasn't difficult to sense that the girl had personality and an uncommon ability to write good songs. The third album, while not meant to be a fabled litmus test, marked a turning point and defined the sound of a girl who still struggled to blend carefree pop and a certain high-quality soul of Anglo-Saxon craftsmanship. With the help of co-writers/producers who are now very famous, such as Jonathan Shorten/Richard Stannard (Joss Stone/Artful Dodgers), Gabrielle fielded a team of truly cohesive tracks with at least five highlights.

The initial "Sunshine", I confess, is a song that even today, being the sentimental person I am, can still move me. The following "Rise" uses an (authorized) sample of Dylan's "Knockin' on Heaven's Door", giving Gabrielle success even across the ocean. A commercially impactful piece, although I don't consider it the best among the eleven. Alternating mid- and uptempo rhythms ("When a Woman" above all), the album reaches its highest points in the delicate ballads "Should I Stay" and especially "Over You", astounding the listener with the excellent fusion between words (never random) and harmony.

In conclusion: more than two million copies sold, with dignity and without any arrogance. Gabrielle continues even today to write in the same way, spreading important gems of elegant pop here and there ("Out of Reach" in the Bridget Jones soundtrack and the beautiful "Play to Win" from 2004) and remaining an example of style, elegance, and consistency.

I still hold her in great affection.

p.s. The rating would actually be a 3.5, but I’m not lowering it precisely because of other hits not mentioned (hey, 10 singles in the top ten.. not peanuts!)