Canadian singer Avril Lavigne, like Vanessa Carlton and Michelle Branch, belongs to a new generation of young female singer / songwriters. At sixteen she was discovered during a talent show by record boss (and R&B producer) Antonio 'LA' Reid. He paired Avril with veteran producer / songwriter Cliff Magness (Wilson Phillips, Celine Dion). In a few months they made their debut album Let Go together.
The infectious first single Complicated immediately reached the top of the American charts, although it must be said that the song is suspiciously similar to Don't Let Me Get Me by label mate Pink. Furthermore, the album contains a lot of solid, pleasant guitar pop and rock as well as a few beautiful ballads. Highlights are Losing Grip, Unwanted and the beautiful ballad Tomorrow. Of course there are also some teething problems, but we still want to forgive this seventeen-year-old talent. (MvP)more