It's difficult to classify Sara Bareilles' music - but there's no denying the richness and variety of influences on Little Voice, her second album.
Although her voice has the same smooth, sensual tone as that of Fiona Apple, most songs on the record hint of more mainstream, Maroon 5-esque beats and arrangements.
All the songs on the album are written by Bareilles herself, and the singer-songwriter plays the piano on almost every song. Her huge talent makes it hard to believe that Bareilles is a purely self-taught musician.
Love Song, the uplifting, upbeat opener, has already made it to the Top 10 in the US. The more down-tempo Vegas shows off Bareilles' soulfulness and surprising range when she hits the high notes.
Of the myriad beautifully delivered tunes, the standout track is, without a doubt, Love on the Rocks. It's the most original song on the album and tells of the highs and lows of a relationship in a way that flaunts Bareilles' lyrical creativity.
Though her songs are mostly about love, Bareilles has a refreshing take on the topic.