Singer-songwriter Jem emerges into the music world with an undeniable resemblance to Dido’s voice, but edgier breakdowns and more eclectic tempos.

Themes of loss, uncertainty, the randomness of life, infatuation, temporary insanity, and desire have been done to death. Some lyrics on Jem’s album are so applicable, they’re borderline cliché, but stirring music compensates.

Finally Woken exemplifies the art form found in choosing a relative subject and pairing it with original beats. Aside from the guest orchestra, her band plays an array of instruments including Spanish guitar, mini harp, banjo, sitar (sound of The Polyphonic Spree) and a water bottle!

Each song is completely dissimilar from the last. The lightheartedness of “Just a Ride” is fitting therapy for a stressful day. The following track, “Falling for You,” embraces the seriousness of vulnerability required in a new relationship: “Said there’d be no going back, promised myself I’d never be that sad. Maybe that’s why you’ve come along, to show me it’s not always bad…I’ve become a skeptic…wish I had a crystal ball to show me if it’s worth it all.” “They” begins with sounds of Christmas score music from the movie Home Alone. Soon a funky bass line drops and Jem’s voice lays over it all, producing a multi-genre dance song.

“Stay Now” is a direct likeness of Beth Orton’s signature melodic whimpering. The sitar cries with Jem as she humbly asks for prolonged company. The depth of “24” evokes introspection about purpose: “I can’t believe how I’ve been wasting my time. In 24 hours they’ll be laying flowers on my life, it’s over tonight…I need your blessing and your promise to live free. Please do it for me.” Poignant violins carry the song and weighty guitar riffs spark an Evanescence-esque vibe, yet Jem’s smooth-but-smoky near yodeling supersede on what is quite possibly the most powerful track on the album. “Flying So High” is beautiful in its simplicity. A lone acoustic guitar and a few cymbals subtly accentuate her honesty.

ith Finally Woken, Jem has revealed her talent: Her flawless sound, paired with rhythmic variation within each track, creates an excellent CD from start to finish.