How does one begin to describe Avril Lavigne? Pop-rock? Punk? Skater-pop-punk-rock? The debate over the 26-year-old Canadian continues with her fourth album Goodbye Lullaby.
Listeners will be delighted to find the angst of Let Go, the rawness of Under my Skin and the hooks of The Best Damn Thing interwoven in this latest offering. Yet, Goodbye Lullaby - showing a new-found maturity and deeper voice - differs greatly from her past works; it's her most intimate and soul-baring to date.
Lavigne has always engaged in releasing emotional tension through her music. Her divorce from Sum 41 front-man Deryck Whibley has had a great influence on the album, as seen by the stripped-back, quieter, reflective tunes at the end. Some critics claim it is unoriginal, with repetitive chords and little stylistic innovation. Yet from the rebellious What The Hell and the dark Everybody Hurts to the romantic I Love You, it is truly a pleasure to listen to Lavigne's voice.
The essence of the album is captured by the song Wish You Were Here. Its meaningful (and undeniably catchy) lyrics, such as, 'You're always there, you're everywhere /But right now I wish you were here', sum up the feeling of loneliness.
Lavigne composed most of the songs in hotel rooms while on tour and in her living room - and it shows. As you listen you feel as if Lavigne is inviting you into her personal space and singing solely for you.