Reviews Written by Willipedia

Growing into Maturity

Pros: tonal quality, ambiance

Cons: similar to prior album

I have appreciated Dido's music since I saw "Sliding Doors" and had to buy a copy of that song. I enjoyed her first full-length album and was curious if she could hold up after three years of silence (and remixes).

"Life for Rent" explores similar themes of dating, urban living, and the sheer nonsense of life sometimes. Having said that, I believe she breaks new ground by including a sense of emotional maturity and perspective that were absent from her prior work, "No Angel". There isn't as large of a concern with posturing or appearance. For a sophomore album, it is very strong. "Sand in My Shoes" is destined for some major remixing and a top-10 slot, carrying much of the feel of "Take My Hand" but adding a genuine befuddlement with modern life.

Overall, the album is excellent and surpasses my expectations. Anyone who ever compared her to Natalie Imbruglia was sadly mistaken and discounts Dido Armstrong's capacity to capture mood and view in lyrics and music. This album will attract more fans that "No Angel", though they will be across greater genre borders. In a word: solid. ...