Ever felt influenced by a media figure? Ever heard stuff like, "Phil Collins is rubbish" on the TV, spouted by some arrogant twit who wouldn't know one of the best drummers in the world if Phil shook his hand? Right, well it's the same with Katie Melua.

She gets so much stick from some media types, yet if you actually listen to the album rather than a so-called critic you'll discover a musical treat.

All the comments about her voice being honeyed, chocolate smooth, and so on are spot on; there are some really interesting lyrics too. No good if you want some metal or dance but if you want contemporary melodic pop then this is spot on.

Perhaps the worst criticism I can level at this second album is that her first is simpler to label as "easy listening" or "dinner music". This one really does deserve more attention.

Katie has a voice like velvet and chocolate mixed together I listen to her on my IPOD after work to relax and she certainly does the trick the songs are all different but still has her memerable tone and stamp . If you like Joss stone and Eva Cassidy I would say you would like Katie as well

KATIE MELUA_PIECE BY PIECE is an absolute joy to listen to. She sings so skilfully and has an achingly beautiful voice which wraps itself around you, lifting your heart with it's expressiveness. I love the very knowing tracks of SHY BOY and HALFWAY UP THE HINDU KUSH. You can't help but smile listening to them. THANK YOU STARS has such breathtaking beautiful lyrics, as does PIECE BY PIECE and I CRIED FOR YOU.
On the whole, this album has a lovely balance. Gentle, slightly cheeky, depth of feeling and thoughtful. Lovely lyrics. This is music which is easy to listen to and very more'ish. I did not see any Lemmings rushing past me to jump of a cliff - Promise. High Praise from me and much recommended too. Not a hint of negativity from me.

Did Katie go round all Beijing counting all of the bicycles? According to her that's a fact. That's a thing you can't deny...you also can't deny that Katie Melua is a bit rubbish. Do yourself a favour and keep your clicky finger well away from that buy button.