Ingrid Michaelson, "Everybody"

82 Billboard Rating

New York singer/songwriter Ingrid Michaelson yearns for clarity as she tiptoes through the progression of a dying love on her newest album, "Everybody," which balances melodious pop with dreamy instrumental layers and universal themes. The songs travel the emotional pilgrimage to Michaelson's ultimate conclusion on the single "Maybe," where she acknowledges the future's uncertainty but also discovers the prospect of revived love. Smoothing string instruments are found on the track "Men of Snow," symphonic vocals complement piano on the vulnerable "The Chain," and piano and electric guitar flickers drive the catchy tune "Locked Up." A mixture of optimism and realism is present throughout "Everybody," and Michaelson's insights occasionally sting with honesty. --Melanie Fried

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