I first heard of Norah Jones when my mom gave me her CD after reading a positive review... It took a few listens, but Come Away With Me became a prized possession. I have to admit the first time or too it was kind of sleepy... but once you get to know the songs, you realize the differences and begin to appreciate each song separately. There is something so calming about the music, and Norah's voice is just wonderful. Nothing on the album is overdone; it's all beautifully molded. Another thing I love is that the lyrics are never corny or repetitive, so I never get tired of any one song. Not even "Don't Know Why," which everyone's heard a million and a half times. Heh. Anyways... I was lucky enough to see Norah perform in June (2003), with my then-boyfriend, Matt, and his parents. She was just lovely. She sings perfectly in tune, even while improvising and playing her piano (or Wurlitzer). And there's some soft lilt in her voice that is amazingly soothing. I suppose part of my admiration for her is that her stuff is the type I would love to be performing someday. I played and sang "The Nearness of You" for a Pops Concert (2002) and sang "Seven Years" at Senior Celebration (while a friend played guitar)(2003), and both pieces were such joys to work with. I hope Norah's sophomore effort is as good or better than the first... I'm a quiet, but enthusiastic fan of hers. I definitely hope she sticks around!
And uh, I guess this one's even bigger than the last... They just keep getting bigger! Sorry people. haha.