Brooke Fraser
Albertine
Sony/BMG
Right from the first chorus on “Shadowfeet,” the opening track from Albertine, it’s clear that New Zealand singer-songwriter Brooke Fraser is a force to be reckoned with.
A huge star in her home country, it’s obvious Fraser has a different agenda from the legions of cookie-cutter artists some may ignorantly compare her with. Her faith and commitment to numerous charitable organizations show her true motivation as a songwriter, with the title track telling the story of a Rwandan orphan Fraser encountered on a charity trip to the country in 2005.
The delicate pop-rock of “Love Is Waiting” lightens the mood a little, showcasing her powerful voice. The slow-burning “Faithful” has an enduring beauty, and the brilliant “Deciphering Me” could be the track that catapults Fraser to acclaim outside of New Zealand.
With flawless production from Marshall Altman, Albertine stands as an album full of melody, character, and most of all, purpose. Hopefully, Fraser’s music can act as a gateway to raise further awareness of the issues she believes so passionately in.
Brooke Fraser: http://www.brookefraser.com
