The first song I heard by Francesca Battistelli was "Free To Be Me" on her latest album, My Paper Heart. I was captivated by Francesca's beautiful voice, inspiring lyrics, and great sound. I fell in love with her music after hearing the whole album. Her piano-pop sound resembles a blend of jazz, rock, gospel, and R&B. The lyrics in Francesca's music are filled with truth and purpose. It is very rare when you like every song on an album, and this is one of those; I love every song on the My Paper Heart album, each one has its own unique words that speak directly from Francesca's heart. Francesca developed a love of music, theatre, and performance at an early age, but instead of using her talents to be seen and applauded, she uses them glorify God and point others to Him. Francesca is one of my favorite artists; through her lyrics you can tell that her heart is for God and I love that. Francesca Battistelli's music is exactly what I am after, a mix of praise to the Lord, amazing lyrics, and a sound that flows beautifully. Reviewed by Abigail Cicione
Paramore - a tour de force within the entertainment industry - makes a triumphant return with their third studio album, Brand New Eyes, a terrific follow-up to 2007's Riot! While their last album was a success in its own right, Brand New Eyes is a vast improvement over their previous effort, showcasing the group's growth lyrically and emotionally. "Careful" and "Ignorance", the album's opening tracks, offer a listener a satisfying taste of what is to come with the rest of the album. Haley Williams, lead singer for the group, delivers a raw intensity to each lyric, as displayed in standout track "All I Wanted", a captivating perspective on one's love and devotion to someone who does not return the same devotion. Simpler tracks, such as "the Only Exception", show a more reserved side to Haley's voice while also delivering the same emotional power that does not falter. In its entirety, the album is a step in the right direction for Paramore, and it secures the group's longevity and stature in the music industry. Reviewed by Billy Goodwin
On October 24th, twenty-two local children attended Civil War Day, a day to commemorate those who fought in the Civil War and a day to marvel over the various aspects of the Civil War. Six volunteers were in attendance to the event, creating different activities for the children to engage in. Coloring Civil War pictures, examining artifacts, listening to music - these are just some of the activities that the volunteers helped organize for the event. The children had fun, and it was a great day for all.
The teens did a "Make your own T-shirt Day" for Summer Reading in July, and it was really fun! One teen made a Puerto Rico shirt, another just squirted paint all over his shirt, and a couple wrote the names of their favorite bands on theirs. Ten teens came , we all had a great time. I think the library should have another "Make Your Own T-Shirt Day", and more teens should try to come! I love to wear the T-shirt I made!
