This came out in September and, if you’ve got any soul in you, give it a listen. And if you like soul, too. (That link didn’t work as slickly as planned).
I’ve not reviewed it before because, while it is always a great listen, it doesn’t do anything really new. It’s a cheerful album to play while you’re getting ready to go out (or peeling veg for Christmas dinner, as it turns out).
Lady (formerly Nicole Wray) plays 60s-inspired soul, tinged with a good dose of gospel but a modern sound. She often feels like she’s performing in a small club, giving the music an intimate warmth.
Opener “My Best Step” isn’t the strongest track, but it lays out the groundwork for the 60s R&B/soul vibe. “Be a Witness” steps up the tempo and throws in some funk. “Hard Times” sounds like “Saturday Night Fever”-era disco, with added gospel. It’s all about perseverance. The slow, piano-led title track tells the listener not to bury their beauty or be swayed by others — in other words, don’t cover up. It’s a standout tune with strong lyrics.
She reminds me of Deniece Williams in places, notably the high notes in “Hard Times” and the general feel of songs like “Best For Us”.
Worth a listen for soul/pop fans: try “Hard Times”, the title track, or the pop-gospel lift of “You’re Gonna Win”.
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