SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: AMY WINEHOUSE – FRANK (20th ANNIVERSARY REISSUE)

AMY WINEHOUSE
FRANK (20th ANNIVERSARY REISSUE)
UMe

Amy Winehouse’s Frank, a remarkable freshman release, celebrates its 20th anniversary by the tragic artist. She was genuinely impressive, arguably one of the most extraordinary talents of our time. With showstopping tracks like “In My Bed”, “Take the Box”, and “F**k Me Pumps”, Frank is a candid moment of a much less tortured artist, full of strength and spark, supported by Valerie Phillips’ original artwork from 2003.

Frank is distinct. Winehouse is a jazz/R&B powerhouse, and her lyrics are standout; though just a teenager when compiled, the topics can be youthful (“F**k Me Pumps”), sure, but what a classic, she’s intelligent and critical, she’s not battered, but brave. Valerie Phillips does well to capture this individuality in several colourful retro moments in which Winehouse shines, setting her apart from a rather bland backdrop, which melts away.

ALSO AVAILABLE – 2LP PICTURE DISC USING THE ARTWORK FROM THE ORIGINAL CLASSIC SLEEVE ON LP1 AND TWO BEAUTIFUL IMAGES BY RENOWNED PHOTOGRAPHER VALERIE PHILLIPS FROM THE ORIGINAL ARTWORK PHOTO SESSION, SHOT IN 2003 ON LP2

There is something sultry in “I Heard Love is Blind” It’s a smooth track, and the gentle acoustic guitar and splash of flute and trumpet is a trip, like a wave; as soon as it smashes, it is washed away. “In My Bed” stands out for me; something challenging is captured in Winehouse’s vocals, jolting beats and rolling instrumentals. She is remarkable, considering her age at the time. This track is crucial.

Widely considered one of the greatest artists of our time, Frank was the avenue that brought Winehouse into the mainstream; although popular, it did not receive the critical acclaim of Back to Black, recognised by Winehouse’s tortured lyrics. Frank is a beautiful compilation of a tremendous talent lost too soon.

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