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CD REVIEW: Porsche Smith - "About Life"
By Gian F - 06/19/2006 - 12:08 AM EDT
Artist: Porsche Smith
Album: "About Life"
CD Review:
Genre: Neo Soul Sounds Like: India Arie/Jill Scott Technical Grade: 9 Production/Musicianship Grade: 9 Commercial Value: 9 Overall Talent Level: 9 Songwriting Skills: 10 Performance Skill: 10 Best Songs: Crazy, Day Dreamin, BeBop, Neglected Weakness: ? CD Review: I received the debut LP from Porsche Smith, a singer/songwriter/musician from Oakland, California, who has a soothing, and technically precise R&B voice that's developed enough to compete with top Neo Soul divas such as India Arie and Jill Scott. Her repertoire consists of musically diverse songs that succeed in capturing the commercial qualities that are conducive to radio airplay without overshadowing the organic qualities of her vocals, arrangements, or production – which are her strengths.
The organic theme of this project is established with the first track, "BeBop," which is a slick recording that would make an excellent performance piece. It sets a tone and a high standard that is sustained throughout the CD. Her commercial choice of a single rests between "Crazy," and "Day Dreamin," both are instantly accessible and equally as memorable.
Most notable on this project is a song about absent fathers, "Neglected," that is sure to resonate with the legions of people who grow up without one. It's well-written, thought provoking, and therapeutic. More than 6 minutes in length, it's not necessarily radio-friendly, but it's the type of song that will engage and quiet a room during a live performance.
With talent this raw and refined, this project is not just About Life, it's about a great blossoming songwriter with the potential for greatness.
www.porschesmith.com
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