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04 September 2003
Julie Powell, Heart of a Woman (Solponticello)
Julie Powell has been a composer, singer, songwriter and jack of all trades. But this latest venture is perhaps the best thing she has done. Beginning with the earthy overtones on the dark "Intro", Powell takes the listener down a dreary alley before showing them the light. "Over My Head" is a soulful mix of blues, country and gospel. With a powerful yet controlled vocal, Powell seems to shine on this "beautiful" tune. Guitarists Neal Fountain and Colin Bragg add some nice textures, but the song is a bit too repetitive. "In the Garden" is a jazz-oriented affair that has some country sway within. Fans of PJ Harvey and John Parish's Dance Hall at Louse Point would revel in this record, especially during the somber "Dance". As the album states, this is a mix of ballads and spirituals. "Quittin' Time" is probably the album's highlight, a delightful Americana tune in which Powell truly breaks out. The title track is equally stellar, bringing to mind a Nashville-based Norah Jones. If there's one slight disappointment, it's the dirge of "Weepin' Mary", an effort Powell doesn't pull off as strongly as the others. But the moving "Were You There" will give one goose bumps. It's a very solid and powerful performance.
— Jason MacNeil
.: posted by Editor 9:12 AM
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