Score: 2/5
The expression “facing the fire” has long been a metaphor for dealing with tough obstacles in life, but for Michelle Chamuel it’s the start of a new era in her career.
Two years after being the runner-up on season four of “The Voice,” Chamuel returns with her debut album appropriately titled—“Face the Fire.”
The record begins with the title track and Chamuel belting lyrics such as, “Call it a demon, I call it my flame.” While her confidence is unwavering, the album falls short musically.
Her first single “Go Down Singing,” which was released in November 2013 and absent from the album, set a far different tone of what listeners could expect to hear.
The ballad sends a strong message about self-acceptance and positivity missing from the new tracks. Instead, we have a record full of songs that are too similar and lacks the punch needed to succeed.
However, the album does stay true to an overall theme and what appears to be her exclusive sound of electronic-pop influences.
Her performances on “The Voice” showcased the range of her vocals as she tackled a new genre each week, and it’s disappointing that we don’t get to see this on the album.
Each song is monotonously recorded and downplays her true talent as an artist. There is a heavy technological reliance with few real instruments in the background.
Most of the songs are weak lyrically, with a line from “Rock It” saying, “You can dip in the Jacuzzi in your roller-skates.” While the song is about embracing your quirks, the lyrics are reminiscent of a pre-teen’s expressions.
Chamuel attempted to produce an album that encouraged individuality, but unfortunately the result isn’t nearly as well put together as it could have been.
“Face the Fire” is the perfect example of how the amount of time spent on album isn’t directly related to its quality.
In the album’s closing song “Give You,” she makes it clear that however she chooses to establish herself, she will do it wholeheartedly.
She sings, “And now I see—all I can give you is me. I’m not pretending.”
Unfortunately for listeners, that doesn’t come through. Pretending may have fared better for her than producing an album without a clear message.