Summerlyn Powers – The Hive – EP
Sometimes I’m graced with LPs that would’ve been great if there were only 5 or 6 songs featured. Other times, like now, I’m offered 5 lone tracks where an entire LP would’ve been wonderful. Summerlyn Powers has that musical attraction on many of her songs that I got the first time I heard “Red High Heels,” by Kellie Pickler.
Nashville-based Summerlyn’s “The Hive,” is country with a touch of Dolly Parton energy & enthusiasm. It’s like everyone else has Jello & is perfectly pleased but I have Summerlyn’s Jello & it has whipped cream on it.
Her tunes border on country-pop but she keeps certain traditional sugars sprinkled generously throughout her arrangements. This young lady kicks some serious ass as a singer.
“Always On My Mind,” is a gorgeously infectious country-rocker that Summerlyn uses repetition to her advantage. Produced by Reid Sorel with clarity & expertise. Be careful, because this one will embed itself in your memory & you’ll be singing it all day.
Ms. Powers’ songs cover the standard geography of songwriting subjects on The Hive – EP (Drops Oct 6– Kind Blue Eyes Records) with loss, love, faith, friendship & healing. But what makes her unique is how she showcases it with her lilting bright optimistic somewhat juvenile voice that has wisdom. An Alabama native this artist grew up with Creedence Clearwater Revival, Lynyrd Skynyrd & the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band in her ears. She also had inspiration from dinosaurs like Carole King, Joni Mitchell, James Taylor & other singer-songwriters of the 70s. But what’s evident is how Ms. Powers has shaped her own music into her own vision.
“Nana & Papas House,” is a nostalgic tune both sad & filled with rich reminiscing. Quite an admirable mature song from such a young singer. Something that could be easily covered by major country singers because it’s that good. Because Summerlyn Powers is indeed that good.
The closer “Let’s Roll,” has a healthy dose of tonality mindful of Joan Osborne. This is a buzzing rocker. Quite different from the other entries but just as compelling. I like her melodies; I enjoy her lyrics & she has lots of moxie baby.
Musicians – Jackson Anderson (guitar), Tom Davis (bass) & Cole Pomeroy (drums/fiddle/piano).
Color image courtesy of Mia Cervantes Photography. CD @ https://www.summerlynpowers.com/
Enjoy our previous coverage here: Song Premiere: Summerlyn Powers “Let’s Roll!”