The Album Close to You by the Carpenters - Essay Example

This album landed them on their way to fame and success. Though not appreciated by critics, the album has made it to the top 200, which emphasizes the fact that they did have talent. Rolling Stone, describing Karen, comments that “Hers is a voice of fascinating contrasts, combining youth with wisdom; chilling perfection with much warmth” (Changi Airport – “Enjoy the Elegance). Jon Landau, says that Karen has "all the qualities of a good pop singer," phrasing with "subtlety and ease." On the other hand, some critics think that her voice has not got any depth and is just sort of simple.

Other critics believe that Karen does not have much stage presence when she play the drums and sing along, it is not elegant enough. However, Richard’s work is well appreciated for his rhythmic tunes and, yet again, critics did not enjoy his lead in some songs. The band, consisting of this duo, is however, soaring high after the release of the title song ‘Close To You,’ which rank #1 on Billboard Hot 100 and stayed on top for four weeks. In my opinion, they landed a spot in the Rolling Stone list because the album had become a hit even though the political situations were not favorable during the time.

The popular demand continued to grow on wild and loud rock, whereas they featured soft and melodious music. The album showcased Karen’s wide ranged voice and also original compositions of Richard, namely, Mr. Guder, Maybe Its You and Crescent Noon. It is difficult to say that the album was a success only due to one of them. Rather, it was a joint effort and has received attention throughout the world. Though they have mixed reviews, the album has won the hearts of a lot of people. I really enjoyed the album and I am thankful for having been given this assignment as it has given me the opportunity to explore into details the depths of songs that I did not even know existed.

I find all the songs very good and my personal favorite is “Maybe Its You”. The song just spoke to me, I was instantly amazed. The piano brings out all the delicacy of the song. Though the lyrics might not be much, but still “couldn’t we stay and watch the splashing rocks we throw?” (Maybe It’s You Lyrics: The Carpenters) expresses inner most feelings and emotions that are delicately touching. The first stanza itself paints a lovely picture of a couple walking down the beach. The soft music reflects the calm waves lapping up the shore.

There is a really soothing feel to that song which instantly makes one feel good. Well at least to me it does. The songs range from soft to deep to haunting and lingering types. This is what makes the album so special. Its diversity has the ability to draw the audience to it and make them stay with it for long. The music world has a lot to offer, and it is a blessing to us that music from those times has been recorded. If man had not found a way to capture music, then so much would have gone to waste.

Though people are not immortal, their works are. They continue to exist through the wonderful contributions they have made to this world. Saying this, I do believe that Karen remains in a lot of people’s hearts. Not to mention her partner throughout this wonderful journey, her brother Richard, whose musical arrangements and tune compilations have brought the songs to life. I really appreciate their hard work and though they did get thrown into the world of overnight fame after the release of the song ‘