Regular Columnists

Artist: Kathy Compton
Album: “Gentle Ravings Under a Martian Sky”
CD Review: The gentle ravings are actually subtle and sophisticated soulful pop. Compton’s vocals float above lyrical landscapes. The first song makes me want to say that if Marvin Gaye had a daughter he kept a secret then we have found her.

The CD title made me half expect ‘angry woman’ music but this is not that at all. These are uplifting songs that are largely happy sugar pop – including a cover version of the theme from “The Love Boat”. Somehow however it impresses me as much darker than the original and a little spooky. But I like it.

There are many pleasing sonic surprises throughout the CD. There is a definite nod to the Martian Sky in some of the space age sound effects.

The songs are largely programmed, looped and synthed. They are not buried in those trends though and Compton’s vocals and songwriting strength is still in the foreground. I especially enjoyed Compton’s smooth unforced floaty vocal style on each of the songs.

“Gentle Ravings Under a Martian Sky” is a refreshing collection of pleasing pop tunes with surprising sonic twists of lemon.

http://www.kathycompton.com