Natalie Imbruglia - Left Of The Middle

Torn
One More Addiction
Big Mistake
Leave Me Alone
Intuition
Smoke
Pigeons And Crumbs
Don't You Think
Impressed
Wishing I Was There
City
Left Of The Middle

Producer: Phil Thornalley
Label: BMG
Year: 1997

Total Playing Time: 55:48 m:s

So Beth the Babe from Aussie soap Neighbours has put out a record. I have to admit that when I first found out that Natalie had put out a record my expectations weren't exactly high. With predecessors like Jason Donovan, Kylie & Danii Minogue and Craig MacLachlan it didn't seem like there would be too much to look forward to for rock fans.

So, apart from the single, what persuaded me to buy this ? I saw Natalie on the Chris Evans TV show performing Torn, with just the guitar player from the band for backing. The girl can actually sing !!!

Natalie has gone for 'rock chic' rather than 'disco diva'. In the comparison stakes, the names that crop up are Alanis, Meredith Brooks and a hint of Bjork.

Like it says in the lyrics of one of the songs - I'm impressed. This album is actually quite good. If you thought that she'd be a one hit wonder with Torn, well, with songs like Intuition, Wishing I Was There, and City up her sleeve, we should be hearing and seeing a lot more of Miss Imbruglia.

Apparently, it took quite a bit of persuading to convince Natalie to try a singing career. She should be happy with the results. Maybe not of universal appeal to all Mood Swings readers, but worth checking out for the more open minded.

Rating: 8