Corinne Bailey Rae is probably best known for her poppy 2006 hit “Girl, Put Your Records On,” but in her new album The Sea (which hits stores today), we’re treated to a deeper, more soulful collection of songs from the singer-songwriter.
According to The Los Angeles Times, the 30-year-old from England experienced personal tragedy in March 2008, when her husband, saxophone player Jax Rae, died from an accidental methadone overdose. Corinne took a break for a while but then (thankfully) dove back into writing songs — and that brings us The Sea.
Corinne has traded in the catchy choruses for a less predictable sound, blending soul, jazz and even heavy rock on tracks like “Love’s on Its Way” and “Diving For Hearts.” Take a look at the official video for “I’d Do It All Again.”
Not all of The Sea rolls in such slow, deliberate waves though. Corinne speeds things up with rocking drums and churning guitars on “Paper Dolls,” which seems like a bit of a detour (but one I don’t mind taking). “Paris Nights/New York Mornings” also oozes some retro urban cool.
It’s poignant and dreamy and sad and sweet — the perfect soundtrack for winter, whether that involves sunshine or snow. I hope that creating such a touching work has brought her some inner peace.
