Melissa
Phillips – Fits & Starts (Independent)
Melissa Phillips debut EP was recorded live to tape,
over two days, without overdubs or auto tune. It’s probably best that no one
mentions to Simon Cowell that proper, talented musicians are making records like
this, though he probably wont believe it. There, not our problem.
Recorded with the assistance of James DePrato
(guitar, mandolin, dobro, banjo, harmonies), Max Delaney (guitar), Danilo Lopez
(percussion and harmonies) and Kevin White (bass), Phillips has fashioned a six
track collection that maybe a little loose at the edges, but more than
compensates with strong songs and a band that thrives under the pressure of
live recording.
There’s urgency to their playing which perfectly
suits Phillips’ songs. Mostly alt. country and folk in nature, she’s a
songwriter with plenty to say and with the talent to convey a story without
breaking her musical flow. Beginning with the vivacious “Centralia”, the quintet sound fully rehearsed and
raring to let loose – they don’t disappoint. Both Phillips and her band drive
the track home, and it sets them up for the remaining five songs. Other
standouts include the percussion-heavy title track, and the rolling paean to
youthful endeavour “So Young”.
Simon M.
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