Colbie Caillat is “Brighter Than the Sun” in her latest album. The titled album, “All of You” was released in early July and proved to be the perfect summer blend of cool melodies and creative pairings. It is the perfect sunny day, beach-going album that exudes easy, breezy summer love.
Album has an optimistic vibe
Faithful Caillat fans and those just seeking the perfect beach beat will find this album satisfying. Like Caillat’s previous albums, “All of You” gives off a positive, fun-filled vibe, full of the effortless abandon that most of us want during our vacation months. Avid fans will enjoy how this album stays true to the Malibu native’s roots. The So. Cal beach girl has identified herself as a bit of a romantic optimist and continues to make that clear on this third album.
With the same effortlessly sunny premises as before, Caillat goes one step further by revealing some of her most intimate feelings about relationships. “What Means the Most,” “Dream Life, Life” and “Think Good Thoughts,” all mirror Caillat’s belief in optimism and positive thinking when it comes to romance; unlike Caillat’s counterparts who write songs more about the woes of romantic relationships (e.g. Taylor Swift.)
Caillat’s growth as an artist
While the foundation of the album was classic Caillat, there are several things that show Caillat’s growth as an artist. First, this is the first album where we see Caillat being more transparent to her listeners. The singer/songwriter has made more than one reference to the fact that most of these songs are about her ongoing relationship with her guitarist. This has made Caillat more relational and has broadened her audience.
Second, the set was largely produced by Greg Wells, and features one guest appearance by rapper Common in the track titled, “Favorite Song.” This guest appearance showed the true artistry of Caillat’s vocals by showcasing her creative range and proving that she can harmonize with any genre. In addition to Caillat’s influential pen, songwriting collaborators include Toby Gad, Jason Reeves and OneRepublic’s Ryan Tedder.
First song sets tone of album
The album opens up with a tap-your-foot kind of tune: “Brighter Than the Sun.” The song was co-written by Tedder and was meant to set a positive vibe for the rest of the album; thus dispelling any skeptical thoughts of this album being a potential “snooze.” This song proves that this album is definitely not a bedtime record. But while the song is catchy, it seems to resemble a tune that could be found on the next Disney movie. You’ll either love it or hate it.
“I Do” was the album’s lead single and generated an exciting buzz for the release of the entire album. The honest and optimistic ballad is one of the several songs that documents Caillat’s ongoing relationship with her guitarist; and has also proved to be a hit at the many weddings I had the pleasure of attending this summer.
“Before I Let You Go” is classic Caillat. However, it is one of those songs that you forget just after five seconds of it ending, leaving no real imprint on your memory.
Caillat takes an interesting turn with rapper/actor, Common, in her track “Favorite Song.” The track is an upbeat pop song that fits well with a fun summer night. It is the song that most 15-year-old girls will be playing at their summer slumber parties. Thus showing Caillat’s audience range.
“What If” is another highlight on the record, and was also featured in last year’s box office hit, “Letters to Juliet.” Caillat’s melodic vocals and whimsical lyrics are the perfect combination for sparking the giddy feelings you have for that summer crush.
Songs have relatable, vulnerable lyrics
The song “All of You,” which is also the album title, is a lyrically rich track that opens up with a the feel-good, happy strum that begins most of her songs.
“You feel far away when I kiss you, every word you say sounds so confused/ tell me everything, every little thing, I want all of you”
The yearning lyrics reveal the insecurities of Caillat’s relationships. Caillat believes that the song has a message that everyone could resonate with at one point in their life, according to an interview with Celebuzz.com.
“Like Yesterday” and “Stereo” contribute to the positive blend of Caillat’s music and her effervescent trademark. The album ends with a somber note, “Make It Rain,” which serves as a reminder of Caillat’s true vocal talent.
All in all, Caillat has proved she is good at what she does. “All of You” is the perfect summer album with cool easy beats, sentimental lyrics and a blend of effortless artistry. So jump in your car with your girlfriends — or boyfriend — roll the windows down, turn up “Brighter Than The Sun” and head to the beach.
