“Chapter One” (Deluxe Version) – Ella Henderson

Album Review:
Ever since I saw her audition on the X-Factor in 2012, I’ve been fascinated by Ella Henderson.  Her cover of Cher’s “Believe” is still one of my favourite songs. I just admire that incredible voice of hers and that with only 19 years of age! Yes, you could say I am a little envious.

Henderson’s album “Chapter One” already came out in autumn 2014 but with the release of her fourth single from the album – and my current got to song - “Mirror Man”, I picked up the album again and have been listening to it on repeat for the last few days.

The whole album is a great mix. Slow, melancholy ballads but also tunes to sing along and get your inner diva out to. “Ghost” – the first single from the album – has already celebrated global success and has been played non-stop on the radios. However, as previously mentioned “Mirror Man” has really captured me. Its jazzy, 60’s beat, infused with Henderson’s sultry voice makes this a rather catchy song. “1996” is another song that just makes me downright happy. The song depicts Henderson’s life. From her birth to where she is now. Both songs belong to the more up beat tracks from “Chapter One”. Many of the songs seem to be love songs that sing about lost love or the end of a relationship. One of those songs is “All Again”. Henderson laments a past relationship, she can’t seem to let go of and how she would like to turn back the time to change things. During her first X-Factor audition, Henderson sang the song “Missed” and dedicated it to her beloved late Grandpa. The song doesn’t need much; just a piano, violin and Henderson’s voice. When you listen to the lyrics you are captured by their powerfulness and immediately drawn in .

Ella Henderson’s debut album is really worth a listen to. I’ve really felt the passion she’s placed into the album. All the songs have been written by her (and with help from other songwriter’s such as Ryan Tedder, Johann Carlson or Steve Mac).

Although Henderson has a unique voice, some tracks made me think of artists such as Leona Lewis, Adele and even Christina Aguilera. The songs reminded me of classic Rhythm and Blues vibes from the likes of idols such as Billie Holiday (who’s name is also a track on her album) or even the great Aretha Franklin with some gospel attitude. 

All in all, Henderson proves she has a vocal range which is absolutely awe-inspiring! The intensity of her voice and humbleness of some of the lyrics, makes me want to listen to her for hours. A huge praise for this great first album. I cannot wait to hear what she’s got coming for us in her next. 

 Album Tracklist: 

1. Ghost
2. Empire
3. Glow 
4. Yours 
5. Mirror Man 
6. Hard Work
7. Pieces 
8. The First Time
9. All Again
10. Give Your Heart Away 
11. Rockets 
12. Lay Down 
13. Missed 
14. Billie Holiday 
15. Beautifully Unfinished 
16. 1996 Five Tattoos
17. Giants

Credits: 
Photo: Wikipedia
Video: YouTube