Artist: Rhonda and Peco
Album: D.U.A.L. - Decide yoU Are Love
Review by: Annie Reuter

After years of separate band and solo projects, Rhonda LaRoy and Peter Giardina joined forces to become Rhonda and Peco. The duo’s latest release, D.U.A.L. - Decide yoU Are Love, is 16 tracks of heartfelt and angst-ridden tales. While LaRoy is the lead vocalist, producer and arranger on the LP, Giardina helps out on backup vocals, guitar, keyboard, percussion and harmonica. 
D.U.A.L. - Decide yoU Are Love kicks off with delicate finger picking of the guitar before LaRoy’s angelic vocals enter on “Love Thread.” Light percussion further accentuates her relatable lyrics before the track picks up, soon showcasing LaRoy’s booming voice. As LaRoy begins to sing of her attraction, she embodies two personalities: the shy and cautious vs. the outspoken and adventurous. As the mood in the song changes, it’s as if she is playing two parts. Throughout “Love Thread,” the listener hears her transformation as the song continues to develop. Questioning her relationship, LaRoy touches upon feelings that many can relate. 
“Love Blind Fool” follows suit with hand snapped rhythms and soulful vocals. A jazz fused track, LaRoy’s sultry singing style impresses. The soothing guitar and percussion accompaniment only continue to accent the track.
Next song, “Intuition To Go” switches gears with fast paced guitar and dark vocals. A stripped down track with just vocals and guitar, Rhonda and Peco continue to hold their ground. An all-encompassing sound, the duo demonstrates their commandeering ability on the LP. 
The angst-ridden “Thanks To You” tells the tale of a woman scorned by the man she loves. With raspy vocals and aggressive guitar parts, the listener senses her frustrations and heartache. Guttural vocals electrify alongside wavering keyboard accompaniment throughout the three minute song.
“Push All Your Problems Away” begins with predictable finger-picked guitar rhythms as heard throughout previous tracks on D.U.A.L. - Decide yoU Are Love. However, LaRoy’s slowed, rap-like spoken word throughout are a welcomed deviation. While “Save the World” and “I Can Hold Your Love” continues the album’s leisurely pace, standout track “Does One Thing Lead to Another” is a breath of fresh air. Encompassing a distinct Middle Eastern flavor, sweeping musical accompaniment takes the listener on a journey.
“I Don’t Wanna Stop Loving You” and “This Is My Home Place” introduces new genres while reflecting an old soul vibe. With slight country roots influence, and an almost yodel like feature on “I Don’t Wanna Stop Loving You,” the listener gets the sense he is on the prairie listening to songs around a campfire. Additionally, the bluesy “Dance Away My Blues” continues to diversify the band with wavering harmonica interludes and LaRoy’s seductive roar.
With intricate guitar parts, the laidback and soulful “You Got My Heart Twisted” strikes a chord while the beautiful “Come to My Senses” introduces memorable piano and heartfelt vocals.  Slowing the album to a close, last track, “Life Can Be Really Good” showcases LaRoy’s higher register with familiar acoustic guitar.
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