“Love Me Out Loud” Album Review by Tom Vernon
Posted on Jun 15, 2009 under Reviews | No Comment 1,258Having spent many years in the radio industry as a program director and recording engineer, I’ve had the opportunity to be associated with some of the greatest talent in the world. It’s always refreshing to see what’s on the horizon when it comes to new music – particularly “Country/Blues”.
While surfing the web last week I was amazed at how many new artists are actually out there, vying for attention. Not many make the grade in terms of quality of recordings and material presented. Ultimately they remain relatively unknown and obscure – eventually fading to black – never to be heard from again. However there are a few exceptions – one of which I’m happy to talk about. Her name is Cat Beach, and her name is popping up all over the web.
Ms. Beach has managed to pull off the seemingly impossible. It’s hard to describe her style – her versatility is uncanny. She can easily shine as a “country” artist…but also be considered a bit “bluesy”. So if your interests are both, then pay close attention. You’re going to love this album. It’s called “Love Me Out Loud”; and I’m pleased to say, it’s one of the best albums to come out in a long time – particularly from a “new artist”.
Take a look at the track list:
- 1. Hard To Love
- 2. Whole New Thang
- 3. Burning Up The Years
- 4. Risk Me
- 5. Love Me Out Loud
- 6. Mercy Of Your Hands
- 7. Big Yellow Taxi
- 8. Stand Up America
- 9. Your Given Road
- 10. What’s Love All About?
She mesmerizes with songs that are not only hauntingly beautiful…but memorable as well. Then with a twist of her voice, she becomes a bit “sassy”. Her delivery says: I’m gonna be who I want to be” – leaving you thinking: “Where’s this woman been all my life?” Needless to say … I was incredibly impressed with her repertoire.
Remarkably in fact, every track on her latest release can stand on its own as a complete package … although admittedly, the album does carry a theme. That theme is the story of her long journey to where she’s eventually found herself today. It’s a story about love and pain – but also hope and encouragement – a message that will touch every person in a most unique way, as it did for me.
The songs go right to the heart and soul – pulling you along – making you want to stay until the end. When you think its over, the ear candy continues, with sincere and distinctly memorable tunes – cleverly and passionately written, only to leave you humming them again and again later. Even the Joni Mitchell cover song “Big Yellow Taxi” will leave you tapping your toes and singing along to Cat’s very special interpretation.
For a new artist just arriving on the scene, one is amazed at how profound this album is…from the first track to the last – every one a masterpiece. Factor in the incredible talents of some “Grammy greats”, like world renowned guitarists Dean Parks and Lee Skar, along with some amazing percussion from drummer Herman Matthews and keyboard/piano/Wurlitzer from producer Ned Albright … and you’ve got a first class winner.
To say I was impressed is an understatement. Final touches to this project with mastering, was done in Los Angeles with the genius of Robert Hadley, who is also well known in the industry. A lot of great talent and hard work went into the production of this CD…and it shows.
It’s impossible to list a “favorite” track – as every one is unique and special in its’ own way. 9 of the 10 songs are all originals, and the soul stirring “Stand Up America” cuts right to the core of our nation’s deep emotion – which left me wanting to share that message with friends across the country.
Other memorable tunes include the title track “Love Me Out Loud” of course, along with the sassiness of “Whole New Thang”, the sensuously romantic “Risk Me”, and … well …
What can I say? I absolutely loved them all. In fact, it’s the first time I can recall actually listening to an entire album all the way through, without skipping tracks – something I frequently do with even “established” artists.
Overall, I highly recommend this album to anyone who looks for hope and inspiration on their personal journey though life. Truly, Cat Beach has pulled off the seemingly impossible – and that is to grab the listener on the very first song, hold them till the last tune, and leave them anxious for more.
With outstanding production values, wonderfully poetic songwriting, and some of the greatest musicians in the world in the mix…you’ll be left feeling the same excitement and positive response that everyone that’s heard this album has experienced. From Japan to Germany…from the U.K. to here in the states, Cat Beach delivers nothing short of an incredible performance and a miracle.
Kudos for a job well done – and much success to you Cat, as you climb the ladder to greatness. I’m looking forward to the next project with much anticipation.
“Love Me Out Loud” can be found at several on line music venues – including Amazon and Cat Beach’s website – www.catbeach.net. Pick up or download a copy. Believe me…you won’t be disappointed.
Tom Vernon
Producer/Studio Manager
American Impact Media
