budding artist?

Lately I've been introduced to Utada Hikari, and I must say I'm quite confused about this girl. She did a great thing when she brought the wonders of R&B to the music community. Her first actual hit (Automatic) was very creative in terms of lyrics and features beautiful background.. although for some reason she just can't sing it. Utada's voice is barely audible for many parts but then suddenly becomes something quite reminiscent of Sarah Brightman's quality. Being a curious fellow I borrowed a bunch of her other hits from my friends and I found that the voice thing occured on almost all of the songs from around the same date as automatic.. including the remixs! Unfortuately none of her new releases (including first love) are as good. Utada has me quite intrigued.. could this girl be a budding vocalist in disguise? Perhaps in the future she will wow the world with her voice and achieve idoldom despite not being as attractive as most other girls. Also.. later I saw her music videos. I really don't understand why a budding vocalist can't seem to get out of the chair when its obviously a dance beat. and then I noticed.. her lips were only in sync when she sings in her low voice. This fan is disappointed.

3/5 stars on account of whomever she got behind the curtains.

Hikki!!!

I started listening to Hikaru's music when the SAKURA Drops single was out. At first it felt kind of strange. Hikaru has a very interesting voice in my opinion. However, I got use to it very soon and I enjoy it. Automatic is one of the CD that Hikki fans should not miss. The songs are wonderful. I especially like "time will tell". I just think the music and words are very nicely played.

Superb Single

This is a superb song from an awesome New York based singer. It has a Japanese/English mix of lyrics and a funky, fun beat. I love to listen to it in my car with teh windows open, the volume cranked up and the bass maxed out! Her voice is beautiful and, contrary to an earlier review, she is gorgeous. And she's only 19 years old! I expect a lot of great things in the future as she matures.