Dove (Commemorate Edition) (CD+DVD) DVD Region All

A frequent participant of singing contests since a young age, Aska Yang has both the passion and the talent. Just based on his performance on One Million Star, his outstanding singing talent and vocal technique have already greatly exceeded one's expectations for a newcomer. Aska Yang has undeniably beautiful and distinctive vocals; his singing carries both tension and texture, providing a full sound and bringing out the emotions of a song with such strength and clarity that it truly reaches the listener. As for his new album Dove, Aska Yang's performance does not disappoint. He maintains his distinctive vocals, displaying his vocal strength with ease and nimbleness. He can, however, in putting even more power into his singing, also learn to hold back a bit so as to bring more texture to the melody. His handling of the songs can also be clearer to emphasize his individual style.

In terms of melody, lyrics, arrangement, and replay value, the songs in Aska Yang's debut album Dove meet the standard, but don't stand out enough. Overall, Dove is a solid, but not superb release. If this is reflective of the record company's desire to keep the focus on Aska Yang himself, then it is understandable; otherwise, the producers of the album should really have worked harder to write Yang better songs.

Title song Dove has a likable melody that goes easy on the ears. The lyrics, which seem to reflect Yang's own thoughts, are both expressive and deliberate; though the writing technique itself is unexceptional, the sentiments contained within the lyrics can be felt by the listener. Written and composed by Mayday's Ashin, "Onion" stands out in both melody and lyrics. Though comparing love to an onion is nothing new, Ashin's subtle, yet emotional pen successfully touches hearts without sounding cloying. "Wind of Happiness" has a comforting musical style, and Yang's performance hits the mark. Matilda Tao's lyrics also nicely complement the song's laidback mood. The Tanya Chua-composed "Yearning for Love" has a touching melody and atmosphere, and Aska Yang's husky interpretation is a pleasant surprise.

by Stephen Lee

(Translation: Sanwei)