After shooting to fame on teen-oriented website Myspace.com, 21-year-old Lily Allen has finally released her debut album Alright, Still. Based on the CD cover, you would be forgiven for thinking she is yet another bubblegum-pop idol. But she is less Britney Spears or Paris Hilton, and more a female Mike Skinner (The Streets) or girly version of Avril Lavigne. The sassy pop princess oozes attitude and is not afraid to express her opinions. The CD consists of 11 urban tunes portraying the highs and lows of growing up in London. Her lyrics are honest and witty and you feel like her best friend as she tells you her stories of breaking up, friendship and partying. Allen's music is easy to listen to. It has addictive choruses and grooves that will make you want to get up and dance and sing along. The big hit Smile, which combines upbeat reggae beats with sweet and girly vocals, is a story of revenge on an ex-boyfriend. Allen extends this theme in Knock 'Em Out, a groovy piece about turning away the boys on a night out. The best track is Littlest Things, a beautifully crafted, bittersweet ballad about breaking up in which she recollects her vivid memories of the little things in a past relationship. If you can stand Allen's cheeky attitude, Alright, Still should be your soundtrack for the summer holiday.
