ANDREA RAMOLO CD release, Wednesday (March 30) at the Great Hall. See listing. Rating: NNN
This sophomore disc from Toronto-based road warrior, teacher and sometime dancer and actor Andrea Ramolo sees her moving in a Janis Joplin-influenced blues rock direction that suits her voice.
Producer Tim Thorney (Alanis Morissette, Jimmy Rankin) brings out a radio-friendly 90s alternative vibe on songs with themes ranging from the personal to the political. Electric guitar, bass, drums and keys keep things cohesive, with occasional use of violin and harmonica adding colour. Gettin’ So Old co-writer Cindy Doire lends backup vocals to many of the tunes.
Ramolo is strongest on roots rocker Whole Life Running, rabble-rousing Freedom In America and tough and bluesy O Brother. When she slows down on love songs Cold In The City and closer Please Don’t she’s less convincing, though they help with the pacing. The album evokes a good night out in a small town bar far away from the city lights Ramolo calls home.
Top track: Whole Life Running
