Living Proof is the first introduction that listeners will likely have for Perala’s music, and it allows listeners to be entranced by her inimitable style. The track soars on plinking pianos and a vocal style that takes on hints of Sheryl Crow and Stevie Nicks. While Perala’s vocals are front and center, the instrumental arrangements present here provide a very thoughtful backdrop. Fine uses an interesting differentiation between the vocal and instrumental elements of the track; the disparate pacing of the two makes for a wholly unique track. Hip Hop and Cartoons ties together a sixties organ with a free-form set of vocals. The inclusion of a snap/clap track showcases Perala’s interest in the titular genre. Fat World is the perfect example of a late-album track that bolsters the album’s momentum. Hoopla spins listeners into an entirely new direction, all while keeping the same high quality that was presented during the opening strains of the album. The track takes on a Bif Naked meets Letters To Cleo feel that will keep listeners firmly tied to their seats until the conclusion of Exactly Nowhere’s final track, Neverland.
Neverland is a microcosm of the various styles and approaches that Perala took through the entirety of Exactly Nowhere. However nicely the track ties up the loose ends, Neverland still adheres to the adventurous spirit of the rest of the album and will keep listeners second guessing until the last note.
Interested readers can pick up a copy of Exactly Nowhere at Perala’s CDBaby (http://www.cdbaby.com/Artist/GenaPerala ). Check out her website for more information about live shows, samples of her music, and methods to contact her.
Top Tracks: Fine, Hip Hop and Cartoons
Rating: 8.3/10
Gena Perala Exactly Nowhere CD Review / 2013 Self / 15 Tracks / http://genaperala.com/ / http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/genaperala4