Leeann Atherton – Good God
This collection is different for me, but while the songs may suggest a Gospel-inspired theme, Ms. Atherton applies her high-octane vocals to these pieces with a rock n’ roll spiritual muscle akin to Elvis. Her voice has all the convincing energy. Taking church songs & liberally blending them with a stylistic banquet of soulful sound that’s irresistible.
The opening songs are cranked out with a dense vocal timbre throughout the Leiber & Stoller classic “Saved,” & on to “Drinkin’ That Wine.” If you’re in a church pew, you’ll be standing & clapping. Elvis probably would have enjoyed singing with the Austin-based Leeann. She understands how to apply the “pop” aesthetic to these serious lyrics. The band is tight, lavish & gospel cool throughout their amen arrangements.
There are 13 soulful songs, though not all have a spiritual slant, to Good God (Dropped May 22/Rainstorm Records/45:13) produced by TJ Moss (bass) & Johnny Vernazza (guitars). Of the baker’s dozen, there are 3 originals, mixed with classic pop, roots, gospel, Americana & soul.
While her singing is always impressive, the gospel-oriented & soulful pieces are far more convincing than the ‘60s pop nugget interpretations. I guess to my ears her voice doesn’t have the mainstream, commercial pulse of Patti LaBelle. But that’s not a dig; Leeann is just a purer soulful vocalist who has more church in her tone than a pop chanteuse. There’s a world of difference between Jackie DeShannon’s “Put a Little Love In Your Heart” & the performance on “Call On the Lord.”
Leeann Atherton is a serious artist in this realm. There’s an emotional resonance that’s evident in the depth of her gospel tone. It almost sounds like she “believes” more deeply in the lyrics of “Call On the Lord,” but not as much in the DeShannon & Joe South pop songs. It’s just not her forte. It happens with Joe South’s “Games People Play.” Good vocals, but hardly as propulsive as her obvious gospel dazzle.
These songs should not share space with her significant numbers; they pale beside the likes of “I’ll Fly Away,” where she’s motivated. It’s like comparing the quality of Elvis’ “Viva Las Vegas” with his magnificent “How Great Thou Art.” There’s no comparison & Elvis wouldn’t put those 2 songs together on the same album.
The pop detours would’ve served Leeann better at the close of the album. The best pop effort comes with “I’m Looking For a Miracle.” This is an expressive tune with soulful backup vocals that’s impressive.
Highlights – “Saved,” “Drinkin’ That Wine,” “Joy,” “Call On the Lord,” “I’ll Fly Away,” “I’m Looking For a Miracle,” & “This Little Light of Mine.”
Musicians – Mac McNabb (guitars), Edward Cleveland (drums), Rob Lamonica (keys), Bob Berman & Kevin Cooper (bass), Austin Atherton, Laura Jane Willcock & HeartBeat Pro (bgv).
Cover image courtesy of Jeff Murillo. CD @ Apple & Amazon + https://leeannatherton.com/