Healing Sixes: Blue Jay

Blue Jay, the fourth album from Indianapolis band Healing Sixes, is a bit of a hit and miss album. From the first track to the last, Blue Jay, just isn’t the most consistent thing you’ll ever hear.

 

When I bring up consistency in this case, I’m not talking about sticking to one style throughout the album. As far as that goes, Healing Sixes know what sound they’re going for, and they stay true to a bluesy rock feel for the entire album.

 

The problem of consistency comes up in the technical aspects of Blue Jay. On some tracks, everything is spot-on. Singer Doug Henthorn’s vocals flow out smoothly, the instruments all balance each other out perfectly, and you get a solid, well-done piece of music.

 

On other tracks, though, Henthorn’s voice lacks fluidity and sounds strained, while either drums or guitar overpower the rest of what’s going on with the song...MORE

Galia Arad: Ooh La Baby

If you like such female artists as Colbie Caillat, Ingrid Michaelson and Sarah Bareilles, I guarantee you will enjoy listening to Galia Arad.

 

Galia Arad’s sophomore album, Ooh La Baby, is a delightful blend of pop and folk (she describes herself as “Bob Dylan meets Britney Spears”), and Arad packs a three-fold punch as being singer, songwriter and guitar player for the album.

 

Ooh La Baby has a strong acoustic leaning, and the simple melodies and instrumental backings are there simply to give a little support to Arad’s voice. Her vocals are beautiful, and the fact that there is minimal backing to them allows Arad’s voice to really shine.

 

The album is a concept album with all the songs revolving feelings toward a specific guy, and Arad’s voice captures this perfectly...MORE