Charlie Puth is a rising star in large parts of the world in 2016. The United States, Great Britain, France and Australia have already changed tack for the American singer. And that even before his debut album Nine Track Mind hit the shelves. Puth's talent seems to know no bounds. As a child he could name all the notes of a rushing sea or an incoming gust of wind. When the organist of his church
… once stayed home sick, he effortlessly filled in. Of course without having had a day of lessons. Puth writes, sings, makes music and produces most of everything himself. His skill is exceptional. It is therefore striking that Nine Track Mind sounds very ordinary. As if he held himself back. Nowhere is the music really spoken. It's Motown without overdrive, R&B without tension and hip-hop without aggression. That must be a conscious choice. Puth indicates in interviews that he is very businesslike. With Nine Track Mind he has a commercial stunner on his hands. Well made, well made up, but certainly not what you hope for in a child prodigy. (JE)more
