Album Review
Julie Roberts
Julie Roberts
Mercury Records
Purchase The Album
It has been a long time since a new artist on a major label has come right out of the gates and floored me with their voice. Julie Roberts has managed to do just that. She's got a soulful, bluesy voice that absolutely soars above the songs she has selected to record on her rock solid debut release.
The smash hit lead of single "Break Down Here" gives the listener a good idea what to expect from this record. The entire album has a stripped down, raw feeling to it which is unlike anything else out there on mainstream country radio. Julie's voice is instantly identifiable and soars along the heartbroken tale of this first single. It's a joy to listen to and a worthy hit song. The good news is that the album gets even better.
The album opens with the funky "You Ain't Down Home" which is a contender for a follow-up single. It's sassy attitude is addictive and will have you singing along after just a listen or two. Julie also rips through "No Way Out" which really showcases her unique vocal style. The tropical feel of "Just Cause We Can" is totally different from anything else on the record and is a perfect summer time tune.
The real highlight of the album comes courtesy of "Wake Up Older" which is an absolutely stunning ballad about the devastation caused by the end of a relationship. This type of song only comes around once in awhile and it's got smash hit written all over it. "Unlove Me" and "I Can't Get Over You" are strong as well.
It's rare that a debut album comes along which is this well developed and flawlessly executed. Julie has picked a collection of excellent songs and performs them in a completely unique. There is not a weak track here and could you ask for anything more?
Album Review by Jeff Krasky
The WOC Rating Scale |
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The album stands above the rest. This is a record that every country music fan needs to have in their collection. This album is better than the average release. A strong record with some flaws that keep it from reaching that 5 star level. This album is an average country release. Doesn't posses qualities that make it stand out among all the other albums out there. A weak record that lacks solid songs or good vocal performances. Sample before you buy. This record is a bargin-bin reject that just isn't worth the time or the money. Completely misses the mark. |