the 31 best of 2007 – 11: Annie Lennox – Songs of Mass Destruction

I can’t believe I am posting so late today; but it has been a busy day, being it is the last working day before Christmas break. Either way, let’s get to today’s amazing selection, okay?

In at number 11 on this year’s list, is the fourth solo album by the amazing Scottish diva, Annie Lennox, entitled Songs of Mass Destruction.Being a fan of Annie Lennox for as long as I can remember definitely plays into how much I enjoyed this record, but even without a prior following, this record is totally brilliant. Annie comes back to us after her last raw effort, Bare, and this time, she has something that has been bugging her, and somethings that she needs to get off of her chest. She is clearly upset with the way things are going in the world with regards to war, poverty, AIDS, and women’s rights, and as such, these topics permeate many of the heartfelt songs on Songs of Mass Destruction.

Annie has always really struck me as such a diva, because of her amazing, and unique voice; if you hear it, you would instantly know that it was her singing. The power in her vocals is impressive, and shines on each and every track on this record. Like her solo albums of the past, Annie has the ability to make some show stopping songs, and pummel you with anthems that will certainly tug at your heartstrings. I am always amazed at how emotional she can be, and portray that completely with her voice.

Overall, the album is a beautiful, and strong effort from Annie; many are calling it her best solo album. I can’t ignore the amazing songs from her first and third albums, but I am inclined to say that this album is definitely something that Annie Lennox should be proud of; there isn’t a dull song in the bunch, and every song really says something, and portrays such meaning and feeling in a way that only Annie does it. To listen to this record is to really listen to a weathered and talented musician really make music, and it is a great sound to behold.

I must admit that I was super excited when I heard that Annie was releasing a record this year, and I had a feeling that it would end up on my best of list. Low and behold, it lived up to my expectations, and totally delivered the goods; this record is amazing… and as such, here it sits near the top of my list.

Favorites from Songs of Mass Destruction:
Smithereens
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/annielen-smithereens.mp3]
Through the Glass Darkly
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/annielen-throughtheglassdarkly.mp3]
Lost
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/annielen-lost.mp3]
Dark Road, and Sing (follow those links for youtube goodness).

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