Justine Blazer – Girl Singing The Blues
Self-Released
10 Tracks – 38 minutes
Justine Blazer, the seasoned country artist with a Grammy contender status in 2021, takes a bold leap into the blues realm with her latest release, "Girl Singing The Blues."
A Detroit native who initially began her musical journey in a blues band in her hometown, Blazer later shifted gears toward country music, where she achieved considerable success, including seven #1 singles on independent charts. Now, she unveils her blues debut, marking a significant departure from her country roots.
Released on August 30, 2022, "Girl Singing The Blues" quickly made its mark, claiming the top spot on the iTunes Top 100 Blues Albums, dominating Amazon Best Sellers and New Releases, and making waves on the Billboard charts, where it peaked at #18. Blazer's decision to delve into blues comes from her Detroit roots, steeped in blues, R&B, and Motown influences. The album, featuring ten original tracks, showcases Blazer's versatility as a singer-songwriter and her adeptness at producing, mixing, and mastering.
The opening track, "Pretend in The Dark," sets the tone with a horn-driven R&B piece reminiscent of Motown's golden era. Blazer's soulful vocals assure that everything is alright, establishing a powerful introduction. In "Cold Day in Hell," a soulful ballad, Blazer declares her independence, expressing that she won't be running back, complemented by Kirk Wakely's piano and Alan Baker's organ.
Injecting positivity, "Big Bright Beautiful Day" takes on a poppier sound, featuring Claudette King (B.B. King’s Daughter) on vocals and Syreeta Thompson adding a jazzy trumpet. Shifting back to soul and jazz influences, "Tears of Blue" explores the theme of heartbreak, with Suzanne Grzanna's soft sax accentuating the emotional depth.
The rocking "Sound of My Heels" asserts itself as an anthem of departure, with Lou Molitch's guitar and Luke Mosely's organ creating a dynamic backdrop. "Hard Way" shares a reflective story with country undertones, while the duet "Between Here and Gone" with Damian Wyldes blurs the lines between country and blues.
"Bad Love" rocks out as Blazer bemoans a love that she thought would endure, showcasing her ability to infuse blues themes into her sonic palette. In the duet "Never Get Away" with Natalie Jean, she explores the complexities of love, noting the heartbreak yet expressing an enduring loyalty. Closing the album, the title track, "Girl Singing the Blues," offers a soft, jazzy conclusion, solidifying Blazer's blues identity.
Throughout the album, Blazer's voice remains a captivating force, effortlessly navigating the varied musical landscapes. "Girl Singing The Blues" not only marks a significant shift for Justine Blazer but also serves as a testament to her musical prowess and willingness to explore new horizons. The album is a delightful addition for fans looking to experience Blazer's bluesy side, showcasing her versatility and commitment to artistic growth.
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