Singer-songwriter Zee Avi gained fame by posting her videos on YouTube. After a successful self-titled debut, the Malaysian Borneo artist now shows she's more than just a sweet voice with her second album, Ghostbird.
As soon as the vocals start on whimsical opener Swell Window, it's easy to see why Avi attracted attention - the sweet quality of her voice is arresting. Although this suggests innocence, the 25-year-old displays a more mature outlook.
She deals with the experiences of growing up on contemplative song 31 Days. Other standout tracks include Siboh Kitak Nangis (Don't you cry), a smooth jazz number in her native dialect, Sarawakian. Concrete Wall features a deceptively laid-back a cappella backing, but lyrically it simmers with frustration with an argumentative lover.
Avi's style emerges as a mixture of mellow reggae and smoky jazz. As a singer, songwriter and player of the ukulele and guitar, she clearly has talent. It would be good if she had experimented further with her vocal range.
Still, don't dismiss Avi as easy listening. Ghostbird in Avi's native language is the term used for owl and there are owl calls scattered throughout the album. The subjects of many of her songs are surprising. All in all, Avi offers listeners a thoughtful work of art.