Sketches

I have to admit that I purchased this album because I was curious about Billy Joel's daughter. I was almost prepared to not like the album because I thought, "Maybe she's cashing in on her Daddy's fame?" But I have to say that I was so WRONG! When I heard the album, I was blown away! I LOVED it and bought 2 more copies - one for my car + one as a gift. <br /> <br />I think also that I was really proud that Alexa Rae stood up for her mother - super model Christy Brinkley so much. If there is one person on the planet who isn't aware: Christy's husband (Alexa Rae's stepfather) cheated on Christy with a young girl who was like 19 or so. Pretty disgusting. But instead of hiding her head or being ashamed, Alexa Rae wrote this SONG about the incident and it was all about how this guy just lost the best thing of his life. And Christy (who is just gorgeous still) just gathered her life together; kicked him to the curb; and is surrounded by people who love her. And all of this is reflected in Alexa Rae's music. <br /> <br />She is SO talented + cute + sincere. I read her blogs a lot on MySpace and she just tells it like it is. It's just SO refreshing to listen to someone that isn't a product of a record label's image. <br /> <br />More importantly, Alexa Rae seems very grounded. Her parents should feel really PROUD of her. I just wish that she would start touring more, but I think that she is really perfecting her craft right now. She has a lot of supporters. And the thing about her father? His name may have made it a lot easier for her initially - but in many ways, it made it harder for her too. Because everyone is expecting this awesome talent. Well, with Sketches - Alexa Rae DELIVERS.

This is a really enjoyable collection. I can't wait for her first full-length release. Her voice is strong and original and her songwriting is beyond her years. Her musicians are great. As good as this CD is, if you see her live, you will be even more impressed. I say, "Buy it." Then I say, "Buy one for a friend or two (makes a great Christmas gift, unless you're Jewish, then not so much).

This is an amazing debut CD. For those of you are unware of this, she is the daughter of Billie Joel. She has gotten her songwriting and musical ability from her dad. I was very impressed with her lyrics and voice. When singing "Song of Yesterday" she makes me think a little of Nora Jones but better. This is keeper for your music collection.