Syco (label)
19 October 2009 (released)
22 October 2009
X-Factor winners always have a challenge after winning. The winning song is Xmas number 1, then oblivion for 9 – 10 months, following which we are supposed to all welcome them back, whilst at the same time concentrating on this year’s X-Factor
That said, Alexandra Burke has bounced back with a storming Number 1, with more than a leaning towards capturing the US market, both with the song and video. After all, Leona has been very successful in the US, and ultimately that’s where the big bucks are (literally).
Bad Boys is a competent single, but can 'Overcome’ live up to both Alexandra’s X-Factor hype, and perhaps also Leona’s post X-Factor success? The answer is probably yes, as 'Overcome’ is a very (very) polished album, with huge chunks of production ensuring it is a monster offering. Perhaps at times this is overdone, but ultimately 'Overcome’ enables Alexandra to show case a variety of musical styles. 'Good Night, Good morning’ adds a drum n bass beat, whilst 'The Silence’, Gotta Go’ and 'They Don’t Know’ head into Leona talent, and very competently at that. Alexandra does have a huge power ballad voice that works well especially on The Silence – future single?
'Bury Me (6 Feet Under) is a strange Candy man-esque track that morphs into Amy Winehouse musically. 'Dumb’ is a powerful Rihanna style track, whilst the title track 'Overcome’ is a huge number – starts off slow before building to a huge finale – another single?? 'Nothing But the Girl’ is more like 'Bad Boys’ again and would be a good dancefloor number.
'Hallelujah’ is added at the end, and still sounds good, but Jeff Buckley still wins this one for me.
'Overcome’ is a very competent album, and well worth the wait. Alexandra does have a great vocal range and style and has delivered some big tunes here. I think her success is assured for a few more years yet.
