In 2000,
Melija released her self-titled album. All ten of the album's songs are slow, easy listening love songs, which makes for a rather boring listening experience.
Melija sings in a high-pitched voice that sounds weak and devoid of depth. Her singing sounds like a whisper at times, and a listener may encounter difficulty trying to hear her, as the instruments can drown her out. One wonders how she ever got a recording contract.
However, on the album's eighth track, "Baby, Just Go,"
Melija's voice undergoes an amazing transformation. She starts in her usual whispery style, but then her voice becomes strong and has depth. She even adds an impressive, soulful flourish. It is truly amazing at how different she sounds here. One wonders why she doesn't always sing like this. Unfortunately, she reverts to her usual weak style on the following "Baby, You're the One." One might wonder if the improved singing on "Baby, Just Go" was just a vocal mirage, but another listening to "Baby, Just Go" confirms
Melija's strong performance.
The rest of the album is bland, as track after track consists of slow, easy listening music containing simple melodies that are sung simply. The end of the album holds a surprise, as
Melija actually speaks and wishes that everyone enjoys the album. At least she's earnest about it, but it's not enough. ~ David Gonzales