On the top layer of this multi-dimensional album are tasty groove tunes - a creation of sonic space where soul, jazz, funk and rock adroitly boogie. Also mixed in, with perfect measure, is a bit of jiving country (Honey Child) and desert noir.
Dive deeper; listen with headphones and vibe the empowering, healing, awareness-raising, positive messages that are also great for dancing. Its themes cover the supreme aspects of being; do good, be mindful, energize, forgive and love.
Kate Becker and The Zodiacs have hit their stride. It’s obvious the talented four-piece was meant to bring forth fantastic music, and all of these 11 tracks prove that. They know each other musically and personally, and it shines through in spades – both on the album and on stage.
Becker has the gift of scribing lyrics that allows listeners to take in her stories and make them their own. With Mike Hieber’s bass lines, Becker adds her voice and drummer Aaron Emery “lands succinct rhythms and well crafted grooves,” as Stuart Oliver aptly states in the press release.
Oliver, who produced and mixed the album, also rocks on guitar, Rhodes piano, mandolin and backing vocals. The tracks where Becker and Oliver come together on lead vocals, (New Groove, No Wings Are Needed Here) sound so good and make so much sense that I hope they do more of that in the future.
The CD release party takes place at Club Congress, July 17, 7pm. Other shows include 2nd Saturdays, July 10; Sky Bar, August 6; Congress Patio, August 21; The J Bar, August 25.Visit MySpace.com/thekatebeckerproject.
