I'm beginning to think Adele is a much more skilled songwriter than she is a singer. I know this is sacrilege in some corners. I apologize for that. I listen to her voice when she sings live or on any of the tracks on 21 and hear signs of vocal damage and a severely affected tone. She's pushing herself on some of these tracks in a way that worries me. I hate to hear someone possibly hurt their voice, especially someone this young. Regardless, "Someone Like You" is an exceptionally well-made song. The driving piano rhythm is a simple arpeggio with a descending bass. It starts as a simple chord, then slowly builds the tension as the lowest note descends further and further away from the initial chord. It's a simple trick that does wonders for the track. It creates a great sense of movement and carries the emotional core of the song.

The lyrics are simple but well scribed. They're honest. Adele is addressing someone who left her for another woman. It's blunt without being cruel or deceptive.

I heard that you're settled down That you found a girl and you're married now. I heard that your dreams came true. Guess she gave you things I didn't give to you.

It's as much about her own regrets in the relationship as it is about what she believes has been done against her. What could be a simple song about being a victim of a bad relationship or an unexpected betrayal rises above cliches with honesty and strength.

Never mind, I'll find someone like you I wish nothing but the best for you too Don't forget me, I beg "I'll remember", you said, Sometimes it lasts in love but sometimes it hurts instead.

The melody is deceptively simple. The verses leading into the chorus are very repetitive. Only a few notes are used. It creates a sense of comfort and safety, inviting the listener into Adele's story. Then, as the chorus builds, it gets higher and higher until she is screaming out her message.

Even if you don't consider yourself an Adele fan, it's worth hearing the craftsmanship in this song.

what do you think? Are you on Team Adele the singer? Sound off.