Renée Gros
Glad I'm Wrong
***and1/2 out of *****
The debut full length effort from Renée Gros, Glad I'm Wrong, is a throwback to the warm singer-songwriter, 70's era albums as the New Orleans based artist eases her voice and songs out with relatable emotion.
Gros' dynamite vocals are the star of the show here and they arrive right at the beginning as opener "Morning Song (Glad I'm Awake)" shines a spotlight on her sound which is supported by Wurlitzer piano, allowing Gros to sing her heart out. A strong undercurrent of soul works it's way through the pairing of "New York Times" and "Beggars Can't Be Choosers" as both feature strong Hammond organ work from Nigel Hall who also helped produced the album.
The swampy-rock of "Winding Me Up!!!" is an album highlight which recalls the style of both Allen Toussaint and Bobby Charles before it deploys a top notch sax solo from Jason Mingledorff that cooks. "Alone Again" is a smooth vibe with excellent keys and bright guitars from Danny Abel while "Nashville" is a soulful, sultry throwback winning effort.
Gros shifts gears, moving more theatrical with less successful results on the shimmering "Borrowed Time" while "The Weed" co-written with guitarist/producer/partner Tiago Guy has flashes of 80's pop-rock and Prince like production. While that is an interesting change of pace, Gros seems most at home with the smooth R&B backing and excellent vocals she displays on tracks like "Shades of You" which has touches of Carole King floating throughout.
The album ends strong with the passionate title track that is defiant while taking on organized religion with dramatic, fiery vocals before an ode to her hometown of New Orleans, the relaxed shuffling of "Homesick". The self-proclaimed "dive bar diva" has established a good foundation with her debut effort as Renée Gros's Glad I'm Wrong is a sweet summertime stroll through soulful sounds.
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