There’s just something inherently wrong with finding out Ms Cilmi was born in 1991. Aside from the fact that it makes me feel like I should be growing a beard and hanging around primary schools, her birthdate instantly seems to single out her career path as one of those annoying Joss Stone ‘age belies voice’ divas.

Quite frankly, Joss Stone has left such an irreparable taste in my mouth that the very mention of her or her associated genre brings about bubbling rage and a mild gag reflex.

Luckily, Gabriella Cilmi is nowhere near as punchable and her debut album offers up more than the usual 60’s-resurgent warblers currently doing the rounds. Amy Winehouse’s success spawned numerous imitators content to merely mimic the soulful sound of the 60’s rather than dare to create something truly interesting.  ‘Lessons to be learnt’ is a step in the right direction though, showcasing an ‘old’ voice steeped in modern sensibilities.

Her voice is undeniably impressive (imagine Macy Gray and Amy Winehouse going at it. On second thoughts, don’t) and sounds even more unique when thrown into an intriguing collection of current styles that alternate between the chilled grooves of Groove Armada to the upbeat funk/pop of Girls Aloud.

It’s a shame that many people will dismiss her as another one of those ‘annoying soul bints’™, when she seems to be carving out a nice little niche of her own.

Posted In Album Reviews, Sep 16 2008. Words - Matt