Posted on: March 29, 2012 Posted by: James McQuiston Comments: 0

Alyssa Graham is an artist that is looking to break the world of the dominance of Adeles and Joss Stones; on Lock, Stock & Soul Graham shows that the true soul cannot be replicated for a mass audience. Rather, Graham’s point with Lock, Stock & Soul is to individually touch each person that listens in. This makes for an album that hits on all cylinders, from the opening strains of Til My Heart Quakes all the way to the close-up-shop feel of a Tidal Wave.

The closeness of this album is fostered by the substantial talent that ey brings onto the disc. Jesse Harris, Meshell Ndegeocello, and Steven Elliot all make considerable contributions. Spun 12 different ways, Graham bares all. Listeners that have given Lock, Stock & Soul a good, solid listen will hear each nuance and unique piece of Graham, and will be made better for it. Bouncing from jazz to classic pop, blues to soul, there is no limitation to the styles that are broached during this album. Personal favorites of mine would have to be Until The Last Leaf Falls, a track that showcases Graham’s dedication and drive, as well as You’re The One, which is a tremendously touching and heart-felt type of track.

While Graham’s work on Lock, Stock & Soul is incredibly strong, I still feel that Graham would absolutely amaze in a live setting. Make it a point to check out Graham whenever ey makes it into your neck of the woods. Pick up Lock, Stock & Soul today at your local independent music store or at any reputable online retailer – you will not be disappointed.

Top Tracks: Til My Heart Quakes, Until the Last Leaf Falls

Rating: 8.1/10

Alyssa Graham – Lock, Stock & Soul (CD) / 2012 Sunnyside Records / 12 Tracks / http://www.alyssagraham.com/

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