Brooke White

Amidst the hundreds of R&B hopefuls that “American Idol” seems to produce every season—many of whom are more prone to howling than singing—the show has proven it can unearth a few gems as well. In Season 7, that gem was Brooke White, who, although placing fifth in the overall competition, brought new life to the show with her folksy yet sophisticated vocals and self-accompaniment. With these tools at the ready and a much larger following in tow, White has delightfully crafted her second album (the first since her American Idol appearance), “High Hopes and Heartbreaks.”

Fans of White may have become tired of hearing her compared to Carly Simon and Carole King, but there is really no better way to describe her. A gentle rasp gives her vocals a down to earth vibe, reflecting the sense of serenity that set apart these celebrated predecessors. The lyrics, though not the album’s main selling point, convey a stirring honesty. In “Sometimes Love,” she sings, “Sometimes love is an empty invitation / Sometimes love is a word that’s used in vain / Sometimes love is just something that people say everyday / And I don’t want it that way.” The songstress certainly does not provide us with another “You’re So Vain,” but she manages to hold her own nonetheless.

Another standout is White’s cover of “Use Somebody,” the recent hit by Southern rockers Kings of Leon. Her version, though not hugely different from its chart-topping counterpart, gives the song a more whimsical quality, and her own easygoing tone provides a breath of fresh air distinct from the Kings’ more angst-ridden interpretation.

Though each song on White’s album deserves acclaim for some aspect or another, the title song warrants the greatest praise. Here, White truly perfects her style; the Simon and King influences are certainly present vocally, but the song is contemporary and even jazzy. The addition of the electric guitar on this track—most others feature acoustic or piano—gives the necessary 2009 feel that persists as the album continues. Over the course of this one song, White reminds her listeners that although she may be influenced by these illustrious artists of the 70s, she is, herself, an artist of the present. With these triumphs, “High Hopes and Heartbreaks” is a remarkably tasteful juxtaposition of past and present styles.