I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, Unchange, from Gina Sicilia and it's a nice blend of soul, R&B, gospel and blues. Opening with Healing Time with all of the richness of sweet soul music, Gina Sicilia on lead vocal sets a great table. Backed by Ann and Regina McCrary wou have the best vocal backing money can buy and Kevin McKendree on organ is a terrific addition as well to the basic band of Colin Linden on guitar, Johnny Dymond on bass and Bryan Owings on drums. Great opener. How Far Am I From Canaan is a light take on a full blown gospel track with Sicilia singing acapella over the electric guitar accompaniment and excellent vocal backing of Linden. This is an impressive showcase for Sicilia's vocal prowess and brilliant contemporary interpretation of a traditional style gospel tune. On Rev Gary Davis' classic track, Death Don't Have No Mercy, Linden really opens nicely with reverb saturated blues guitar riffs. Sicilia takes a more bluesy approach on this one with excellent results. Linden gets a chance to let his blues chops flow and with terrific results. Excellent track. Valentine is a real nice ballad with strong radio structure. The melody is well constructed and Linden's acoustic guitar accompaniment is a perfect foil to Sicilia on vocal. Very nice. Linden's, Don't Be Afraid To Be Wrong has the distinct, Gary Davis style rag feel that immediately perks my ears up. Sicilia's vocals float lightly on Linden's finger work making this one of my favorites. Wrapping the release is traditional ballad, There's A Bright Side Somewhere, and Sicilia handles it with great sensitivity and composure over the acoustic accompaniment and beautiful slide solo of Linden . This is a real nice closer for a strong release.
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