We often joke that Nollsy was robbed when he lost to Guy Sebastian on Season One of Australian Idol - but both gentleman went on to have great careers. Year two saw the two finalists, Casey Donovan and Anthony Callea go on to work consistently. It is such a shame that the best contestants seem to battle each other in one year. Jessica Mauboy could have won any year of Australian Idol, but lost to strong competitor, Damian Leith. Though if you want to argue who was ripped off the most when they lost, I would argue it was certainly Jessica Mauboy - this talented lady has had one helluva career and this past week became the first indigenous artist to go to number one on the Australian album charts. A well deserved accolade. It could easily be argued that she is the most successful of the Australian Idol alumni.
I adore Jessica Mauboy, always have, Her career has certainly been stellar. It surprises me one of her albums hasn't hit number one before, especially when so many singles from debut, "Been Waiting", hit number one.
This is an easy album to listen to, so many recognisable songs all handled beautifully with on point vocals - Jess could sing the phone book and I'd be enraptured. Cover albums are always fun, but it is the originals that draw me in the most. But as for the covers, there are some good ones here. "It Must Have Been Love" has been updated with a new beat and Jess sings the hell out of "Flame Trees". "Amazing" sounds very current and it takes a talent to take on Sia and succeed, and that's what she's done with "Big Girls Cry". New single, "Wake Me Up" is also a beautiful example of Jess's powerhouse voice.
It's the originals that have really excited me. First single, "Risk It", has all the trademark signs of a classic Jess single, great beat, excellent pop sensibilities and vibrant, powerful vocals. "Home To Me" is a fabulous ballad with a beat. It has a great build with some stunning back vocals and great lyrics, it is emotive and strong. "Closer" is also incredibly strong. There's a beautiful longing in the track and a sweetness and authenticity that an artist cannot fake.
This isn't Jessica Mauboy's best album, but it's not meant to be. This is the soundtrack, the companion to Jessica's starring TV role. It is easy to spot real talent, and Jessica Mauboy has it in spades. She is one of this countries biggest talents, and that is reason to celebrate. Congrats on the number one Jess, you deserve it and so many more accolades.
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