Weekly Release Spotlight: Alice Russell
Posted on 3/02/2009
Alice Russell
Pot of Gold
[Six Degrees]
Alice Russell takes you back to a simpler time, when the music was powerful and artists exuded soul. Her U.K. born, bleach-blonde bombshell looks are deceiving. Listening to her front one of the tightest backing bands in recent memory, you'd think she'd have more in common with someone like Aretha Franklin or Eartha Kitt. Pot of Gold, Russell's second proper studio album, features the singer's exquisite voice in all of its glory. A little bit silky, a little bit raspy and incredibly sultry, Russell stays as true to her influences as possible, producing an album that sounds like it could have been recorded at Motown in the 1960s. And that's why it's so great.
The recording is an instant classic. The drums are punchy, the bass is grooving and the keys are incredible. The roomy, reverberant production is live yet still intimate. The blazing sounds of the B3 knock you out from the get go on "Turn and Run," the first track. The syncopated rhythms of "Living the Life of a Dreamer" are accented by a growling Wurlitzer and horn stabs. One of the best songs on the disc, "Dreamer" is a perfect example of Russell's incredible voice. The Latin-inspired "Universe" gives listeners a taste of what got her started, working with the groups Bah Samba and Quantic among others. Plus, there's just the right amount of jazz flute. Also notable is her cover of "Crazy." She gives it the soul that Gnarls Barkley never could, ending with a lush, layered vocal assault that almost makes you forget about the original.
Russell doesn't have the tabloid attention grabbing skills of some of the other soul revival acts coming out of the U.K. But, somehow, she seems incredibly more badass. Clearly a veteran of her craft, Russell exudes a sensual confidence that can only come from staying true to her heart and influences. Great songs are timeless, as are great performances. Luckily, this release is full of both.
Stream: Alice Russell - Got The Hunger?
Written by Andrew Zoellner, Radio K volunteer.