It opens with her distinct version of Daft Punk’s “Instant Crush,” and it is followed by a haunting piano-driven ballad “Cannonball,” the latter of which showcases her crystalline voice.
Her version of Aussie singer-songwriter Josh Pyke’s “The Summer” is breathy and uplifting, while “I Will Follow You into the Dark” is delicate and a polished story song. She does a stellar job covering country group Zac Brown Band’s “Goodbye in His Eyes,” and it is refreshing to see it being sung from a female standpoint.
The inclusion of The Cure’s “Friday I’m in Love” is an added treat, since it is upbeat and fun, and one that the listener can clap along to. “Naked as We Came” is a slow ballad and yet another soothing vocal.
She continues with the sassy “Let My Love Open the Door,” and she would make Neil Young proud on the stirring “Only Love Can Break Your Heart.” Equally stunning is “I Melt with You.” She shows her fans how to have a good time on Tom Petty’s “The Waiting,” while her voice is ethereal on Cat Stevens’ “The Wind.” It closes with the radio version of “Instant Crush.”
The Verdict
Overall, Natalie Imbruglia is back stronger than ever on her latest release Male. She deserves to be commended for her superb choices in her song selection for this project, especially since she pays tribute to tunes written by male artists. This album garners an A rating.
