While her own songs earned a rapturous reception from the audience, her ability to reinterpret others' iconic songs is a rare gift. Her cover of the Cure's "Lovesong" transforms the track into a quiet meditation on true love. "However far away I will always love you/ However long I stay I will always love you/ Whatever words I say I will always love you," she sings, letting her voice linger over every word. Few vocalists dramatize the lyrics with their voices alone, forcing the audience to closely listen to—and absorb the meaning of—all the words. Bonnie Raitt's "I Can't Make You Love Me" retains its heart-wrenching, devastating mood thanks to Adele's multi-layered voice. Hearing her perform this song, one would imagine her as an older woman who has survived lifelong heartaches instead of a 23-year-old.
The most touching moment in the entire concert is Adele's tribute to Winehouse, a lovely and touching rendition of Bob Dylan's modern classic "Make You Feel My Love." Before starting the song, Adele requests that the audience to hold up their illuminated cell phones and asks the Albert Hall crew to turn down the lights. Along with a twirling mirrored ball throwing sparkling reflections on the walls and audience, the glowing cell screens made the room resemble a night sky filled with twinkling stars. She then turns in an incredible performance, her voice stretching the meaning of the song to encompass grief.
Her encore, consisting of the one-two punch of "Someone Like You" and "Rolling in the Deep," cements her status as an everywoman--one who can express universal feelings of anger, regret, and determination. As her fans sing along, they illustrate the deep connection listeners feel with this unique talent. While modern, she also represents a throwback to another era, one filled with chanteuses who perform classics as well as current songs, lending them their unique voices and worldviews. Adele is shaping up to be one of those rare artists who not only sings songs, but reinterprets and transforms them. Live at the Royal Albert Hall, which contains a DVD and CD of the concert, further proves why Adele's talent will only grow and deepen with time.
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Article comments
1 - Frank Nolan
I like the way Adele sings, its beautiful.
2 - Barry Shrimpton
I love the Songs but hate the Cockney Waffle and foul language between them on the DVD .....There should be an option on the DVD to Just play the Songs.