If you think pop music is all shallow, unoriginal, and produced for mass consumption without a sliver of genuine artistry, then Natalie Imbruglia’s 'Come to Life' album might just prove you wrong. Released in 2009, this album was Natalie’s fourth studio effort, marking a pivotal moment in her musical career. It pushed boundaries, dared to be different, and in true natural-law fashion, it didn’t pander to mainstream liberal tastes.
Who is Natalie Imbruglia, you might ask? Famous for her blockbuster hit 'Torn' in the late '90s, Natalie is an Australian-British singer-songwriter and actress. With 'Come to Life', she showed she wasn’t just a one-hit-wonder but an artist with depth and guts to evolve artistically and challenge the norms, all while staying true to her roots.
Released when synth-pop was climbing and the music industry was as cluttered as Times Square, Natalie’s 'Come to Life' appeared like a refreshing oasis in the great desert of uniform sounds. Unlike typical pop cliché themes, here we have an album written mostly in collaboration with none other than the founding member of Coldplay, Chris Martin. This partnership itself speaks volumes of the elevated standards Natalie was reaching for.
The album was recorded primarily in England and Australia, and one might think its intricate layers of melodies reflect a harmonious blend of cultural influences from both locales. But don’t be misled—it held its own ground with a sound that was assertive yet rich with emotion, a combination often lacking in the commercial music of today.
Now, let’s shake up the rhythm with some top highlights:
One, the lead single, "Want". This was co-written with Chris Martin and showcased an edgy industrial pop edge mixed with Natalie’s distinctive vocals. The song challenged contemporary notions and perceived relationship dynamics— a punch in the face to the usual sugar-coated musical narrative.
Two, "Scars". When most pop artists stick to bubble-gum topics, Natalie braved the storm with this poignant track about the remnants of a broken love. You can almost feel the rawness leaping out of your speakers. It’s an interesting take considering the time when superficiality took over sincerity in mainstream music themes.
Three, out of the whole tracklist, "Cameo" deserves a mention. This up-tempo piece dragged listeners out of any lull with its driving beat. It was as if Natalie was standing on top of the music mountain and encouraging everyone to embrace individuality.
Four, the exquisite "Fun" radiated a touch of optimism wrapped in anthemic pop vibes. In an age where everything seemingly had to be dark and edgy to be “cool”, it was soothing to hear something uplifting.
Five, "Twenty" with its contemplative nature is another standout. It’s not just a song but a poetic introspective piece reflecting on growing older and wise. When was the last time pop dared to offer that on a silver platter?
Six, don’t forget the track "Cameo" if you want to experience a sonic beat reverberating with energy. It’s a track for those who truly appreciate intricate compositions that offer more than one listens.
Seven, yes let’s nod 'All the Roses'. An absolute treasure in mellow rock, subtly speaking volumes about endurance and inner strength.
Eight, an apt finish—"Wyut" combines a touch of playfulness with introspective lyrics. If you have the taste to look beyond the surface, this track resonates with the depth of her artistic syllabus.
Nine, dig deeper into 'This Human'. It captures the essence of vulnerability and strength, a timeless theme that’s often lost amid the synthetic noise of today’s pop playlists.
Finally, ten, "Cameo Strippped Back Version". This version is a sonic journey of discovery.
It's baffling that 'Come to Life' wasn’t screamed from the rooftops as the masterpiece it is. In an industry driven by the hormonal whims of the moment, there’s something refreshingly rebellious about how this album stood its ground on the charts — authentic, raw, and groundbreaking. Natalie Imbruglia’s 'Come to Life' may have been overlooked by the pop industry's gatekeepers, but in the conservative spirit, what’s good often outlasts what’s popular. 'Come to Life' embodies what music should do: provoke thought, animate your spirit, and challenge the status quo without falling prey to the contemporary herd mentality.
Not all pop music is created equal. Some push envelopes, defy norms, and exude timelessness. Natalie Imbruglia’s 'Come to Life' is such a work— a testament to individuality in an ever-conforming world.