It takes real talent to improve upon a classic, but Jen Carrozza's unique take gives some of these covers an added oomph that boosts them over the top. If you think I'm exaggerating, consider Chris Tomlin's "The Noise We Make" in high-energy bluegrass mode. Her earthy vocals and the sizzling strings (Bethany Dick on fiddle, Jim Adkin's banjo) breathe new life into this classic, and it sets an exciting tone for the whole album. Her talented husband wears the keyboardist, programmer and producer hats, and excels in each area; "Rust and Velvet" is spotless in its production.
Carrozza's voice is a versatile instrument, a melodic arrow of dead-on aim, warmly soulful on "Rescue Me" and blending spotlessly with the background vocals of the slightly Celtic "I Choose You." As powerful as her pipes are, she never overshadows her material, nailing the delicate worship of "Come Be Who You Are" while giving Sara Groves' phenomenal lyrics the spotlight they deserve. Again, her voice is blended stunningly with the background vocals of James David Carter. Charlie Hall's "Beautiful of Heaven" stands out for Carrozza's deeply worshipful vocals, pouring out a moving urgency on the lovely bridge. She co-wrote the lush "Glorify," its arrangements full with the help of an edgy fiddle.
I enjoyed the slowed down "Wonderful Maker" for its jazz feel, the keys quietly humming beneath that warm Carrozza/James David Carter combination. But it's on closer "Come to Jesus" that Carrozza really turns her bluesy vocal powers loose, lookout! This soulful ballad sizzles with vitality, the looming strings barely contained behind her electrifying vocals, wrapping up this delectable project on just the right note. "Rust to Velvet" is a thoughtful and impressive album from a richly talented singer and her red-hot band. You'll wanna kick yourself if you miss it.
Other Great Indie Projects
Jason Harwell, Alive in the Fall
