Writing talent shows teenager’s strength (From Wiltshire Times)

Writing talent shows teenager’s strength

11:42am Friday 7th August 2009

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Musical talent traditionally shows itself at an early age, but for a young singer to be on her second album of original songs by the age of 13 is pretty impressive.

Lauren Dobbin, of Melksham, has just released Inbetween, and on the strength of the three-track promo it is chockful of talent.

Standout track for me was Fool, a wistful teen ballad on which Lauren’s voice is really outstanding. Hers is still a very young voice and Shadows, a song which made it to the album late because of its quality, is one which would perhaps benefit from being sung by a more mature voice.

Musical influences show on Bouquet, though I felt this was the track which best shows her talents as a songwriter, with a catchy lick that easily gets into your head and some well-crafted harmonies.

So what do her peers think of Lauren? The two 14-year-olds I tried this on were impressed by the quality – the album was recorded and produced by promoter Mel Austin at his Beanacre studio – but would have liked to have heard a more upbeat number. “It’s very teen,” said one. “I mean, we do think about cheerful things as well.”

Launched at Melksham’s Party in the Park recently, Inbetween costs £5, with profits going to SANDS, a charity which helps families affected by the death of a baby. It is available at The Cobbler's Bench, Mark's Music, Melksham TIC and The Arts Cafe, all in Melksham, and Whitley Post Office.

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