Following up an album that garnered an unbelievable amount of acclaim from fans across numerous genres is never an easy feet. After essentially sweeping the 2003 Grammy Awards, and taking part in a couple exciting collaborations, including The Peter Malick Group's New York City, Norah Jones is back with her "Handsome Band" for Feels Like Home.
Feels Like Home builds on the jazzy-pop sounds that made Jones' debut album, Come Away With Me, such a huge success, but broadens the playing field a little wider by also venturing into the styles of bluegrass and country. Norah's gentle voice and subtle piano playing is somehow both relaxing and energizing at the same time, and the album opener and first single, "Sunrise," pulls you in from the get go with her soulful vocals.
Jones' took on an increased role in the songwriting on this latest release and the result is somewhat of a looser, more organic feel, than it’s predecessor. New songs such as "The Prettiest Thing" find the singer in familiar jazzy territory, while others, namely "Above Ground," explore a mellow-pop sound with wonderful results. Adding additional strength, she calls upon a few special guests this time, most notably a collaboration with Dolly Parton on the infectiously catchy "Creepin' In." It’s an up-tempo marriage of bluegrass and country, and an exciting and unique departure from anything on her debut album.
Sophomore efforts following up a highly successful debut often find artists trying to recreate the album that originally made them successful. Jones avoids the sophomore jinx by finding a way to invoke new life into her sound, while not straying too far from what attracted so many fans in the first place. Like her last piece, Feels Like Home works well as a soundtrack to so many life moments; whether it's a long drive in the country, being home alone on a rainy day, or the background of your Sunday morning coffee.
