Tina Arena has to be Australia's best kept secret. Don't Ask was the Australian's second album and was released by Columbia Records at the end of 1994. Arena co-wrote all of the songs on the original release of the album which was produced by David Tyson.
An odd feeling comes over you as you listen to this work, a feeling which begs you to ask the question: why didn't she become an international musical phenom? It is easy to broadcast such a question because this woman has some pipes and incredible control in her upper reigister.
While Don't Ask hosts several monster hits, some songs do fall flat.
Power Ballads and More
It is understandable that you would have high expectations after listening to the album's breakout song, "Chains", but some of the album's material is weak.
Don't Ask produced six successful singles including "Chains", the moody and authoritative song, "Sorrento Moon (I Remember)", a nostalgic, mellow, and sweet ballad which captures the spirit of the location, romance and love. Near the song's conclusion she moves up into her top register, controlling demanding notes with ease. "Show Me Heaven", "Wasn't It Good", and "Heaven Help My Heart" are also worth listening to.
"That's the Way a Women Feels" also showcases a devine melody.
While Miss Tina delivers some supreme vocals, there is need for some improvement. Songs like "Message", "Love Is the Answer", and "Greatest Gift" do not shine on this album. Instead of standing firm on their own, they blend into the rest of the material. An artist and their song selection team must always avoid making this mistake because it could be costly.
Don't Ask Succeeds
While half of Don't Ask's material is weaker than the other, it still sold over two million copies worldwide and was certified 10 times platinum in Australia. "Chains" scaled the charts in the United Kingdom to number six and charted well throughout Europe, earning her many awards in the process. Don't Ask was also nominated for ten ARIA Awards throughout 1995 and 1996.
I asked a question at the beginning of this piece, and to be honest I don't know the answer. Miss Tina had the voice and the hits that suggested she would become a major force in the industry. Don't Ask and its warm and emotion driven songs helped to push her voice into the ears of the world. The album clearly has its highs, but it leaves you feeling sombre as it forces you to reflect on the possibilities that Miss Tina's career had.
Aden Miles - Aden is a journalist, writer and artist with a passion for music, food and telling people's stories.
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