Jessica Rhaye - Short Stories - CD Review
Maverick Magazine
Issue 65, December 2007
****4 Stars
Mature vocal sound, with floating dynamics that leave you with a fresh organic mixture.
This is a proposal, a strong enigmatic proposal of vocal abilities and musical talent beyond competition. Rhaye's in a category of her own - the one that says you can make music just how you want to make it with or without a category to fit into at all.
She's got her own sound, raw and organic and yet altogether astounding. Her voice is on the verge of having classical capabilities and yet has the grainy undertones and honest, humble intensities that make it so lovely to listen to. It's untameable and this also fits as an overall view of just how far this album reaches out, all very well and successfully.
Wild Flowers, the opening song of the album introduces on a strong powerful note, with sensibilities rushing like grape vines, you end up twisted umongst a song that's deep and wandering. But following this is possibly my favourite song on the album, Running for the Door which is more than a little uplifting, with a great sond and vocals that leave a somewhat sweeter taste in your mouth. And the album continues like this - one moment leaving you floating with curiosity and the next twisted amongst feeling and emotion that always bears a serious note. However the chorus' all echo Rhaye's sweetened voice, the harmonious ways of her music and the lyrical content she should be acclaimed for.
In the song Crazy Jayne there is a much more raw feel to the instrumentals that prove to be somewhat electrifying. Rhaye seems to hold back vocally until the midst of a song and this really creates an atmosphere in her music, and leaves you just hanging on for the next portrayal, however her voice is high impact even those quiet times when she seems to take her time to introduce you to the Jessica Rhaye way.
I'd definately rush out to buy SHORT STORIES - it's the perfect feel-good album, especially for those dreary English nights.