Chinese Music Blog

Even when the number of members of Cookies reduced from 9 to 4, I never remember any of their faces nor their voice. I do enjoy some of their songs, but that’s it.

This album has actually changed my impression towards Stephy Tang Lai Yan, leader of the former girl band, Cookies. I’m not expecting a strong vocal, however, she impresses me with her sweet and pristine voice. Thanks to her vocal, this album is surprisingly soothing and good.

In the album, Stephy re-sings some group and solo songs during Cookies era, with new arrangement. The little booklet comes along with the album which features some short articles written by Stephy allows us to see another talent of her. Besides, Stephy also composed track 8 “小红帽 Siu Hong Mou” and wrote a few other lyrics. Good effort of her.

There are 3 versions of cover for the album; namely Green, Blue and Orange. A gimmick by the record company hoping that some fans will buy all? Anyway, Stephy looks gorgeous in all 3 covers.

The only drawback is that Stephy seems to sing the songs very carefully. For me she can improve by singing with more emotion.

Notable tracks:

Track 1 – Colors
This first track only takes 1:40 minutes, nonetheless it’s a nice opening, with soothing piano and soft sweet vocal. It reminds me of Kelly Chan’s “Lover’s Concerto”.

Track 2 – 蓝鞋子 [Lam Hai Zi]
First I thought the title was “男孩子”. Yes, the homophones “蓝鞋子 Lam Hai Zi” (blue shoes) and “男孩子 Nam Hai Zi” (guys) are used on purpose. The lyrics written by Stephy herself is sad yet sweet.

Track 5 – 青山散步 Walkin’ Aoyama [Ching San San Bou]
A sweet bossanova. The melody is very relaxing and it Stephy’s sweet and clear voice fits perfectly into it. Definitely a song to be listened. Along with track 2, this is my favorite track.

Track 7 – 他不准我哭 (Unplugged ‘05) [Ta But Jun Ngo Hook]
Composed by one of my favorite composers, Chan Fai Yong. Nothing unique but good as usual.

Track 9 – 黑白照 [Hak Bak Jiu]
This is a stronger and heavier song compared to other songs in the album (I mean in terms of the arrangement). I enjoy this song a lot, even though Stephy doesn’t have the rockish vocal.

Track 10 – 话別 (Piano ‘05) [Wah Bit]
With only piano accompaniment, this serene song showcases the clarity of Stephy’s vocal. A splendid song to end the album. With this song, the album starts beautifully and ends beautifully.

Listen to this album here.

Purchase this album here.