Yael Naim (by Yael Naim, Indie Rock)

Thanks to the big boost by Apple and Steve Jobs, who hand-picked the single "New Soul" for the MacBook Air commercial, Yael Naim's quickly becoming a familiar face in the U.S. Born in Paris, raised in Israel, and classically trained in piano, Naim's second album and first major studio release, is a quiet blend of folk and jazz, with beautiful vocals and lyrical melodies sung in English, Hebrew, and French.

Coupled with percussionist David Donatien, Yael Naim incorporates folk and jazz elements with crisp, acoustic guitar, piano, brass, and cello. The instrumentation is minimalist, full of evocative lyrics and delicate melodies. Naim sings like an angel with experience, breathy and bold, and is captivating in English or Hebrew. She's Tori Amos without the clutter, or a softer-sounding Sia. "New Soul" is "la la la la" lovely, and already a hit. Much of the album is simple and poetic, reflective and introspective about life, love, and dreams. "Paris" is longing and "Far Far" is inspiring, and there's even a remake of Britney Spear's single "Toxic" that's quite a surprise. Let's hope she doesn't have any other similarities to Britney because this is one new soul we hope to see more of.

Released on: March 18, 2008
Label: Atlantic
Genre: Indie Rock