The airwaves are so clogged up with female singer-songwriters these days that any new arrival needs to be truly exceptional to stand out from the crowd. Jersey girl Nerina Pallot certainly doesn't lack ambition - half the lyrics on her debut album are about her desire for success - but sadly her songs just aren't strong enough to justify the comparisons with Joni Mitchell or Tori Amos. The music is slick and radio-friendly but oddly characterless and Pallot's voice lacks the range to sustain a whole album. Looks like she'll have to remain frustrated for at least a little while longer.
