Mandy Moore – Wild Hope

June 20, 2007 | In Music | No Comments

I’ve declared my affection for Mandy Moore a few times over the years. From her last album “Coverage” to movies like “A Walk to Remember” she just picks the right projects at the right moment.

Generally speaking I’m not one for sugary pop music, I haven’t been since I was 10. However since she released her self titled third album, Mrs. Moore has really found a good balance between good music and pop radio friend jives.

Speaking of her last album, “Coverage,” a rather underrated pop gem, took a challenge of finding songs that Moore grew up enjoying or had only recently discovered and putting her own twist on it. It was a fun experiment and prime example of how pop music today doesn’t have to be produced by the Neptunes or have a crazy beat.

This week Moore returns to the music world after a four year absence. Her album “Wild Hope” saw her working with such indie music luminaries as Rachael Yamagata, Chantal Kreviazuk, Michelle Branch, Lori McKenna and The Weepies.

The result isn’t as massive departure from the textures you would expect following “Coverage,” but you do get a more thought out, less lush experience that strips the sound down to something a little more personal. It’s a nice ballance of pop, folk, indie and country.

Moore co-wrote all the songs on the album and with stories of break ups and heart break, it demonstrates that she is willing to put a little more of her self into her music than she ever has before.

“Wild Hope,” is an interesting album and an easy listen even for jaded music fans. It’s not going to win over the critics, but it will win her over some fans. Look at who she worked with if you’re looking for confirmation into the quality of the work. And in the end, just listen and enjoy.