Vocals that braid, pull, tie, tug on, and cut your heartstrings
author: Drew Blankenship
This cd is really one of the better debuts I have heard. Wicks has a deep soul in her voice that comes out at just the right times. She doesn't overdo it; perhaps she under-does it just enough in spots to add dynamics to the songs, rendering the highlights pure and powerful. I like that her voice is not perfect. I like that she takes risks. I can tell that she knows what she wants to do, and isn't afraid to go for it. This CD demonstrates the talents of a woman about to embark on a beautiful career. I only hope she finds an excellent set of professional musicians to back her up on her next disc.
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Great mix of folk-rock and soulful, heartfelt music
author: Erinn N., Washington, D.C.
"Never Leave You Blue" is an excellent mix of folk-rock and soulful slower tunes whose simplicity only add to their evocative emotional power. Most of the songs are upbeat folk-blues rock mix of intelligent and playful lyrics, highlighted by Wix's clear, mature voice and a powerful, yet understated acoustic guitar, which drives the music forward.
Wix's vocal talents really shine best on the slower songs, both those written by her (Gone, Lovers on a Schedule, Never Leave You Blue) and those crafted by her rich, yet innocent voice (I'm Telling You Now, and--especially--Love Has No Pride). The simple emotional purity of the songs leaves you wanting to listen to them repeatedly, slipping into a mellow, melancholy state perfect for rainy days and sunsets.
If I had a criticism, it's only too much reliance on the mandolin in several songs, particularly in "Gone". Having heard a more "acoustic" version of Gone, I think a little less mandolin would only strengthen the songs and Wix's sonorous voice. Buy the CD! It's worth it.
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