★★★★☆
Montaigne springs forth in this ambitious debut album with confidence and zest, and brings the pop world something it desperately needed: innovation.
While at times you can certainly hear the influence of artists like Megan Washington (see the playful keyboard riff in ‘Because I Love You’), and even traces of Regina Spektor (the percussive vocals in ‘Clip My Wings’), Montaigne brings something insightful to this genre with her abrasive vibrato and sheer personality.
Jessica Cerro has a voice that could intimidate armies, but the triumph of Glorious Heights is her versatility, as she slips between forceful tunes like the title track and the vulnerability and tenderness she displays in songs like ‘Consolation Prize’ and ‘Lie To Myself’.
The album is a collection of undeniable hits – just try to keep the infectious beat of ‘Because I Love You’ out of your head. But it is also an unafraid and bold work that lays Montaigne’s soul bare: you will feel her heartbreak, her analysis of weaknesses in herself, relationships and others, and ultimately, her terrific defiance against all odds. Glorious Heights is a work Montaigne should take great pride in – it is as moving as it is delightful to listen to.
Montaigne’sGlorious Heightsis out now through Wonderlick/Sony.
