Sarah Kelly's new Gotee release, "Where the Past Meets Today," carries a strong sense of movement. She has evolved forward- beautifully, powerfully- and it shows.
I enjoyed her debut, "Take Me Away"; how could you not recognize the vocal gifts of this passionate young artist? Still I always felt the simmering constraints of her music, of power restrained. But on this sophomore project, "Where the Past Meets Today," that power cuts loose- deliciously, joyously loose. And Sarah is everything you knew she could be. Raw and real (two of my favorite qualities), and to continue the alliteration, recovered. It's obvious that this artist has not only found healing, but has progressed to the point of being ready, willing and able to pass it along to her audience.
The cover says it all: her face framed boldly, starkly, out of the darkness, facing you head-on, no embellishments. She's ready. And her music confirms it, right outta the gate. Opener "The Beauty of It All" announces her survival, in an interesting Grace Slick tone, the Jefferson Airplane guitar changes echoing the incarnation. But from the first, you know Sarah has moved into her own vocally. Second track "Still Breathing" is classic rock all the way, the roaring guitars matching her raw howling vocals perfectly. But it's the next bluesy "Hold On Love" where you gotta give it up completely to this emancipated Sarah Kelly. This beautiful song gives Kelly the chance to show it all, her Joplin-like raw vocal power, her expressive songwriting chops, and some flawless arrangements, down to the thoughtful addition of the Valley Bible Fellowship Choir. Simply put, Kelly tears it up on this sublime track.
She co-wrote ten of the eleven songs, many of which offer healing and hope to the broken, the album's theme and Kelly's own new experience, which only adds to the project's appeal. Of "Where the Past Meets Today," she says, "Once I started being honest with myself healing and peace followed." And "Respect the brokenness and be okay with it." As I said, she is wonderfully liberated, now not only touring extensively but also pouring life into nearly 900 piano students. Yup, you heard me, 900. She wants them to find the Lord's healing in music that she herself has found. That generosity and faith is what flows out of "Where the Past Meets Today."
Other standout tracks include the old-school slow burn of "Fall Into You," a fearless song of love/worship. "In Your Eyes" is a soulful ballad of thanksgiving and recognition. The album closes quietly with another Grace Slick turn, "Remember Me Well," more '60s changes and an overwhelming feel of peace. Kelly rocks her way through "Where the Past Meets Today," and rocks oh-so-worthily, but happily and ultimately, this album also offers listeners great hope and peace. It is an offering she can be very proud of. Pick it up yourself on August 15 if you're smart.
