More than three years have passed since the release of Natalie Imbruglia's multi-million selling debut album Left Of The Middle. The set established the Australian pop singer's career in America, but also put her at risk of being labeled a "one-hit wonder." Natalie Imbruglia lays those fears to rest with her new album, White Lilies Island.
27-year-old Natalie Imbruglia seems to have avoided the so-called "sophomore slump," the term given to performers when their second album fails to match the success of their debut. Natalie's second album, White Lilies Island, just released on RCA Records, has been met with critics' approval. Billboard magazine writes that the album is "filled with thoughtful lyrics and guitar riffs, and showcases a singer who's matured and grown since her first outing."
Long before establishing a career in music, Natalie was already famous in her native Australia. At 14, she attended a performing arts school in Sydney. Three years later, she landed a major role on the popular Australian soap opera Neighbors. Natalie signed a recording contract with RCA Records in 1997.
In 1998, Imbruglia arrived on the American music scene with Left Of The Middle. The album debuted in the Top 10 of Billboard's Top 200 chart, and within six months, sold two million copies in the U.S. Its success was fueled by just one single, Torn.
Natalie Imbruglia's smash hit, Torn, climbed to the top of the U.S. adult contemporary chart, and enjoyed similar success throughout Europe, Australia and Asia.
After completing a grueling tour schedule in support of her debut album, Imbruglia bought a house in London. Natalie says she spent six months living a normal life before making any plans for her follow-up album.
During her long break from the public eye, Natalie wrote more than 60 songs. She feels the hiatus gave her the time she needed to evolve as a songwriter. Imbruglia co-wrote most of the 12 tracks on White Lilies Island with Gary Clarke, and also collaborated with Patrick Leonard, Phil Thornalley and Matthew Wilder.
Natalie is currently in the U.S. promoting her new album with appearances at radio stations and on high-profile television talk shows. She's also rehearsing with a five-piece band for upcoming concerts that will mark her first tour in the United States. In addition, reports speculate that Natalie might return to acting in a remake of the 1937 film Dead End. Already signed to the project are Sarah Jessica Parker, Matt LeBlanc and Edward Norton.
In the meantime, Natalie will focus on music. The edgy rock track That Day from Natalie's new album was released to overseas radio stations. But, for North America, Imbruglia chose a more upbeat pop-flavored single, Wrong Impression.