She is indeed sexy, and some say she's hot - very hot. But, perhaps, I'm one of those are leaf to say Kara Grainger is sweet and beautiful. That's about her physical looks. Okay, I don't wanna talk about it any further because I'm not an agent of a supermodel. Also, I'm not in offering a client to FHM and describing how wow this Aussie chick is in order to get a big picture of hers appeared in that magazine's front-cover. It's not about her looks after all, but about how seductive Kara Grainger is as a guitar player, songwriter, and singer.
As a guitarist, honestly, she does not show kind of a virtuoso play, magic solos (just say so), and we easily could find a grandiose guitar-oriented album in any other notable blues player's discography. But, what makes
Grand and Green River so enjoyable and worth listening must be its democratic composition where every instrument as if speak to each other cohesively. Of course, there’s also section where she does solo, but never was in too predominant way. It's more just for the song's structural frills rather than a showcase of her great talent. This approach, like or dislike, is acceptable only if she has great qualification as a composer. And she does! That's why we need no reason to question it. She succeeds not only in writing fine song-composition but also good, catchy, and fresh lyrics. Another commendable aspect of this album could be its more acceptable disposition by various audiences. Yes, that's right,
Grand and Green River is not a heavyweight blues stuff. It was never meant to be like that, though. It's just a moderate blues tune, where Kara Grainger on one hand manages somewhat being modern soul, pop, rock, and jazz, but on the other hand she also tries hard not to leave the blues-roots. Oh, fortunately she has gotten her musical direction clearly. Just have this album, and give it a listen, the proof lies within!
To say Kara Grainger’s singing style is reminiscent of Bonnie Raitt must be not a mistaken statement. True, her singing ability is amazing, but, to reach kind of a diva level, she leaves a lot of works to be desired and improved. In a few passages where she manages to be a more pop and rock (listen to "Bring Me Back"), she is a bit reminiscent of both singer Jewel and Sheryl Crow. It's only the matter of time perhaps, she's still young and still in developing process to gain own vocal trademark, and of course, we can only hope such assumption will be answered by her forthcoming release. Last, with David Kalish as producer, and with the highly acclaimed musicians as additional/session players like Jeff Young, Reggie McBride, Joel Guzman, and many others,
Grand and Green River is too good to be ignored. If a blues album spiced up with modern soul, pop, rock, and jazz is your thing; what are you waiting for? Just get it now!
