I have a soft spot for singer/songwriter Sonya Kitchell. Her 2006 release, Words Came Back to Me was something that I really enjoyed and made sure I passed notes about. The record was young but the name Sonya Kitchell remained in my memory and was awaiting a future release. So when I received, This Storm I quickly snagged it from Dan and listened to it nonstop for the last two weeks.
The strength of the record is apparent. The production from Malcolm Burn (Emmylou Harris, Daniel Lanois, Peter Gabriel) helps highlight the beauty and breeziness of her vocals and adding strength and awe with her beautifully strong guitar playing. She was backed by Burns on bass and multiinstrumentalist Brad Barr and drummer (also brother) Andrew Barr (from the band The Slip). Kitchell is noted for the work she has recently done with Herbie Hancock and it’s evident on this record. There is a strong blues connection on the song “Fire;” the guitar part being standout and memorable. . Though the standout track (I find my finger hitting repeat) is the beautiful “Soldiers Lament.” The song is mournful and beautiful full of that almost unreachable desire being intertwined by the simple finger picking. The lyrics of “So Lonely” could be written from the perspective of any women who didn’t get married at the age of 22….
The album will be released September 5 between Decca/Universal and Velour Music Group. The record can be streamed also from her myspace. Make sure you grab this record from one beautiful female singer. It’s rare these days that you find a confident women not in a size two dress covered in a facade. Kitchell is a find. The honesty in her songwriting is evident. I love this record. I hope you do as well.
Pete Francis released his 5th solo album this week. Formerly of Dispatch and with this release I think he should finally be able to shed the “of Dispatch” sub title. 
