Amy Cervini: No One Ever Tells You

As we mature, grow, and enter new phases of life, we constantly discover things that no one ever told us about. In those revelations, be they related to profession, partnership, or parenthood, the truth stands naked. Sometimes it's enlightening in its disrobing; other times it's mildly depressing in its unfolding; and on occasion, it's absolutely gut-wrenching in its explanatory entrance(s). Perhaps there's a reason no one ever tells us these things. But the truth is that the truth can't hide forever. Vocalist Amy Cervini has learned that on her journey, and she willingly shares her wisdom on this topic throughout this absorbing date.

The wide musical embrace demonstrated by the world-wise Cervini on previous albums certainly informs this one, but a roots-and-rock through line and a pull-no-punches presentation separates it from the pack. Bluesy numbers like "I Don't Know," "No One Ever Tells You," "A Good Man Is Hard To Find," and "Bye-Bye Country Boy" find Cervini testifying at the barroom pulpit in expert fashion. And with Jesse Lewis' cutting guitar work, Jared Schonig's rock-infused 6/8 and 12/8 grooves, Matt Aronoff's ballasting bass, Michael Cabe's saloon piano interjections, and guest organist Gary Versace adding a glaze or some grease from time to time, that mindset is magnified to the fullest.

The raw intentions and inventions in the aforementioned material, and in numbers like the swing-along/sing-along "Hit The Road Jack" send-off, carry a ring of truth in their sound and message(s). But they don't tell the whole story. To see a fuller picture of Cervini, her positively bewitching stroll through the clouds on "The Surrey With The Fringe On Top" and a crimson-coated "You Know Who!" have to be taken into account. In bundling it all together, she sings to life's ups and downs, hardships and happiness, and non-stop adventure. Amy Cervini gives it to us straight, telling us what we need to know and hear.

Comments