Birdy has written or co-written all 11 tracks and has taken the opportunity to develop her considerable strengths, while giving a tantalising glimpse at her lighter side. It all comes to the fore in a telling three-song trio that forms the centrepiece of the album. The traditional love ballad 'All You Never Say' utilises her achingly emotional vocals to full effect, before the haunting 'Strange Birds' delves darker: "You've always loved the strange birds / Now I want to fly into your world / I want to be heard". So far, so expected, but 'Maybe' blindsides you with its perky acoustic melody and delightfully upbeat lyrics ("Then maybe, we'll talk about old days / We'll smile in our old ways / You'll always be a part of me"), offering definitive proof that she is equally adept at turning tears into happiness - albeit tears probably put there by her in the first place.

Albums