With a pitch measuring high on the scale, all the way down to bluesy notes that come straight from the heart, Linda Bracamonte proves to go the distance on her album Walkin’ A Line With You. Bracamonte’s vocal impact on the new release stands true to form with her 2008 album I Know the Difference Between a Sad Song and the Blues, but this time takes it a few steps further with more force – she is perfectly out of control. >> “Don’t You Lie”, written by Ema Roberts, packs a punch as first track on the album, and continues all the way to the end, wanting for more. Don’t worry, there is indeed more greatness to be had, and heard. Title track “Walkin’ A Line With You”, is a mix of easy jazz with a bit of sass, thanks again to the divine voice of our lead singer. To add more credit to her score, Bracamonte throws in harmony, along with organ and key horns to the title tune, and joins in with Ema to write the song. Ema is lead guitarist for the band and wrote all the songs, most in 2009 – “Talk With Me” (2005) and “Get Ready” (2007). Bracamonte teamed up with him to help write five of the tracks. >> Renowned blues musicians Mick Martin and drummer Bruce Pressley of Mick Martin and The Blues Rockers from Sacramento, Calif., have set up with Bracamonte for some harp and drums on a couple of tracks. “I’m So Tired” grabs hold of the blues with that unmistakable sound of Martin on the harmonica, and gives way to solo at half track – another excellent tune written by Ema, who throws in his share of vocals fit for high ranking on a list of jazz greats. >> Lance Davis on bass and John Swanson, drums, never fail in bringing their best to the floor, taking on a major role for the new album. “Bad Thing” plays out flawlessly and in sync with Bracamonte’s vocals and Eric Dahm’s keyboard expertise. Kyle Rowland brings a scene to life from the get-go with his harmonica on “Train, Train,” so much so, imagine putting it to stage for a movie soundtrack. Nice work Kyle. >> “Get Ready” spotlights a brilliant sax solo played out by Susan Copperman. Russ Skarsten sounds clean and faultless on keyboards for the last song on the album, “It Ain’t About You,” with the track ending on a fresh note, point well taken coming from the one and only Bracamonte herself. >> The new album is definitely one to keep on top, at home and on the charts.
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