MUSIC REVIEW: KELLY MONROW – Pronoia [EP]

Label: SummitArts

Release Date: December 17, 2021

Rating: 92%

Reviewer: Todd “Toddstar” Jolicoeur

I am typically hesitant to check out material when artists cross over genres looking for greener pastures and the same typically stands true for actors that decide to become singers (I am still not over Don Johnson’s “Heartbeat in the 80’s).  Actress Kelly Dowdle is shifting gears for art’s sake, not a fast grab at fans and fame.  Her latest EP has three songs that point toward an upward trajectory.  The native Texan took this short collection in a different direction than the anticipated country and instead opted for a pop / country / rock feel wrapped around songs that lean on the heavier side of ballad.  Opener “Wide Open” gets you singing along before the first chorus finishes it pass.  The heavy-handed drums, soaring guitars, and beautiful piano pieces provide a perfect launch pad for her vocals.  This song hooked me and kept me listening through the next couple of tracks.  “Either Way” is a bit more country than the previous track, but it feels right thanks to the overall modern pop country sound that comes across.  Monrow’s vocal delivery is emotional and helps drive home the lyrical content.  The chorus is contagious and should seems perfect for a slowed moment in a live situation and a perfect backdrop for a slow dance with your special someone.  Closer “Not If You Stay” dials the energy back up without becoming overbearing or too powerful sonically.  The smoldering vocal that steps up on the opening verse sets the pace for the track the familiar pop country sound that permeates all the tracks here.  This is the track that sticks with me every time I listen to it… there is something about the rhythm, the driven guitar sound, and the best vocal of the three all coming together to create the perfect close to the disc that prompts you to start it over again from the top.

Tracklisting: Wide Open – Either Way – Not If You Stay

KELLY MONROW LINKS:

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PRONOIA ITUNES

Category: CD Reviews