http://thedartmouth.com/2009/06/02/arts/moore/

By Rebecca Wall, The Dartmouth Staff

From appearing in well-received films such as "A Walk to Remember" (2002) and
"Saved!" (2004), to releasing her sixth studio album, "Amanda Leigh" (2009), on
May 26, Mandy Moore has had a storied career — and she's still only 25. Over the
years, however, Moore has distanced herself from the sweet, power-pop image that
first made her famous. Never has this been more apparent than with "Amanda
Leigh."

The title — a reference to the artist's first and middle names — reflects the
charmingly pared-back nature of the album. Rather than relying on over-produced
studio effects and synthesizer magic, Moore puts her voice and lyrics front and
center. The softer, almost-country tone brings to light her personality, which,
as with her latter-day equivalent Miley Cyrus, was smothered when she was a
teenage pop star.

Strangely, her most heavily promoted track, "I Could Break Your Heart Any Day of
the Week," is perhaps the song that most retains the tacky pop trappings of her
past. The tune is catchy, and Moore's voice is strident, clear and strong. Yet
the use of clapping sound effects (think "Cha-Cha Slide") and lyrics such as
"Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday" make the song a little cheesy, and on the
whole, flat.

Fortunately, there is much more depth to the album, as with the track "Pocket
Philosopher." The opening keyboard chords and whimsical vibe evoke Sara
Bareilles' "Love Song" (2007).

The opening track, "Merrimack River," is one of the strongest. The song, a duet
with songwriter Mike Viola, with whom Moore co-wrote much of the album, is soft,
harmonious, and jaw-droppingly gorgeous. With a softly plucked guitar and other
stringed instruments backing the lyrics, the romantic tune is neither serious
nor frivolous, but rather a light song that improves with repeated listening.

In short, Moore has crafted a restrained, charming album, one that is more adult
than her previous efforts.