CD Review: 'From Here' Full of Heartfelt Lyrics and Sounds

Jan 16, 2011
Melissa Kucirek

Katey Laurel's 'From Here' - Photo Courtesy of Katey Laurel music.

Denver's Katey Laurel will appeal to fans of Colbie Caillat, Natalie Merchant, and Joni Mitchell.

At first listen, Katey Laurel's From Here is a bit vanilla. Sweet vanilla - but vanilla nonetheless. What catches the attention of the listener are the words. Laurel's talent for writing as if it is an open diary is warm and fulfilling. Her songs have a beauty in them that deserves a listen.

Voice Compared to Glee's Quinn and Colbie Caillat

The first track, "Begin Again" starts out in a mysterious, airy place. The acoustic guitar cuts deep, and Laurel's soft voice layers above. Listeners might compare her voice to Quinn Fabray of Fox TV's Glee (played by Dianna Agron) meets Colbie Caillat. The backing orchestration is a character in itself, but the words seem to lift the energy of this seemingly somber song. "Begin Again" has a nice hook, and change-ups that listeners of pop and indie rock will enjoy.

"Everything I Love" iIluminates

The second track, "Everything I Love," has a snappy start, and once again there's a fun layering of orchestration, bright piano parts and jumpy acoustic guitar coupled with a mandolin. The harmony on the refrain is contagious. This song feels country folk and is an all-out a gem. Keep listening to "Everything I Love" and it will not be hard to embrace Laurel's voice. This song illuminates the entire CD.

"The Wheel" is one of the lighter-pop rock sounding tracks. According to Laurel's official biography, "The Wheel", "is a deeply metaphorical statement about the realty of relationships." There is truly nothing wrong with this song, but the 'round and round' references get a bit old. But kudos for a pleasant song. The next track, the title track, is slow moving and reflective. It is eerie, yet delicate.

Overall Review is B+

"Somebody Like You" swims along with a sweet disposition. The next track, "Blue Sky's Comin'", starts out like it might be another Mazzy Star tune with a bluesy Chris Isaak feel. Laurel hangs in there and brings a bright, jazzy tone. The final tracks, "Piece of the Moon" and "My Funny Boy", are showcases for Laurel's singing. She's never over the top, but she strikes the perfect balance between subtle and modest. "My Funny Boy" is romantic and would be a nice first dance choice.

This is for fans of Colbie Caillat, Wilson Phillips, Natalie Merchant, Melissa Manchester and Joni Mitchell. Laurel has a strong presentation that would appeal to folk, pop rock and possibly even jazz listeners. The songs are solid and at times have a quirky orchestration to them. She is one of those singers that seems to be smiling, even through the slower and more somber tunes. Overall review for Katey Laurel's From Here is a B+.