Album: 7

Introduction
"7" is the seventh studio album by Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Paula Cole, released in 2015. The album showcases Cole's evolution as an artist as she explores her experiences of motherhood, relationships, and personal growth through soul-stirring rhythms and genuine lyrics. Produced individually under her own label, 675 Records, "7" provides an unique mix of reflective stories and effective music, creating a deeply personal and intimate listening experience.

Background and Production
Following a five-year hiatus from her previous album "Ithaca" (2010), Paula Cole returned to the music scene with a fresh point of view and newfound motivation. The title "7" signifies not only the variety of the album in her brochure but also the spiritual and personal meaning of the number in different traditions and beliefs. Cole's imaginative journey in composing, organizing, and producing this album permitted her to take complete artistic control, working carefully with producer and engineer Chris Rival at Middleville in Massachusetts.

Musical Style and Influences
"7" includes a varied variety of musical designs, integrating components of pop, folk, jazz, and soul. Drawing influences from her own life experiences, Cole's songwriting is reflective and thought-provoking, attending to universal styles of love, loss, and self-discovery. Throughout the album, her effective voice resonates with raw emotion, providing each track a distinctive and sincere quality.

In "7", Cole pays homage to her musical and personal idols, such as Joni Mitchell, Peter Gabriel and Joe Jackson. She likewise cites her roots in the regional music scene around Boston and New England as a crucial motivation for her unique noise and design. Additionally, Cole's passion for social justice and feminism is ever-present in her lyrics, as she attends to topics such as weapon control, racial inequality, and environmental concerns.

Secret Tracks and Themes
"7" consists of 10 tracks that span a variety of emotions, from the reflective "New York City" to the anthemic "Revolution (is a State of Mind)". A few of the standout tracks consist of:

1. "New York City" - A haunting ballad assessing the September 11 attacks, this track showcases Cole's emotional depth as a songwriter and her capability to produce a moving homage to a city and its people in the face of tragedy.

2. "Imaginary Man" - With its lively piano tunes and fascinating lyrics, this upbeat track is a tribute to Joni Mitchell's impact on Cole's music and features an event of imagination, imagination, and self-discovery.

3. "Goodbye, My Love" - A poignant and wholehearted farewell to a once-beloved, this emotional ballad communicates the raw pain of letting go and moving forward.

4. "Revolution (is a State of Mind)" - Infused with themes of social and political change, this empowering anthem triggers listeners to welcome empathy and unity as a driving force for a much better world.

Reception and Legacy
Though "7" did not get the commercial success of some of Cole's earlier work, it has actually been praised for its emotional depth and compelling storytelling. Critics have lauded Cole's ability to provide personal and intimate stories with a strength and honesty that resonates with listeners on a universal level.

The album "7" works as a testament to Paula Cole's growth and durability as an artist. Through a journey of self-questioning, determination, and self-discovery, Paula Cole reveals the depths of her talent and the power of her voice, providing a timeless collection of tunes that will continue to evoke feelings for several years to come.