A turly great piece!
James Mitchem | Roanoke VA | 03/26/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is a must own for any pop music fan the lyrics are incredible and her piano and vocal skills prove themselves again if you liked "Thousand Miles" then you will love this. Recent criticism from some elements of the pop music culture that Vanessa's music is just more manufactured pop are in my opinion are unfounded her lyrics are the most sincere of almost any artist in the past few years. This is Vanessa at her best the sincerity shines through any clouds of doubt if you listen to her voice carefully and pay attention to her lyrics. Also she continues to prove her skills at the piano "Ordinary Day" in my opinion more than any of her other songs showcases her skills with the piano she handles masterfully the careful attention to detail that is required to make good piano music. And she continues to prove that the piano still has a place in modern pop music. All and all this album disserves no less than a five star rating for remarkable care to detail in timing and coordination in her use of the piano and her incredible voice. And most of all the careful thought she put into all of her lyrics and still maintaining the sincerity that makes great pop music in my opinion this is one of the best albums of all to date."
Sophomore single that exceeds the strength of debut
Patrick L. Randall | Silver Spring, MD | 11/08/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"As much as I love Vanessa Carlton's debut single "A Thousand Miles", I think that its follow-up, "Ordinary Day", is an even better song. It gives me even greater hope for the longevity and success of her career. Like "A Thousand Miles", this song is powered by Vanessa's mesmerizing piano play. The soft introductory notes combine with her lyrics to hint at something special later in the song. Here, she also showcases brief examples of the soaring vocals she possesses. Listening to it almost sends a chill down my back. Yet, what makes this song stand out the most is the sophistication of Carlton's lyrics. This song is about the fear and joy of embracing the love of another. In the hands of a lesser talent, the lyrics would about as subtle a kick in the gut. Carlton, however, makes the pondering and the possibilities seem so amazing that one cannot help but get swept up in the song's narrative. I can only hope that this continues to be a sign of things to come from this marvelous talent."