Bring On The Fire
Self-Released, 2019
8/10
This debut album from the Philadelphia songstress Valentina Sounds brings a wealth of talent, as she’s paid her dues in outfits like Sunshine Superman and Sparkle Pony.
A listen that documents the end of a relationship and the onset of another, this isn’t your typical break up album, as Sounds injects humor and optimism into her graceful formula.
After the piano heavy, calm setting and emotive singing of “I Will Share Your Road”, Sounds gets quite varied with the rhythmic and subtly powerful “Bring On The Fire”, the warm country nods of “Flying”, as well as the ultra soulful, almost gospel delivery of “Seeking You”.
One of the best tunes resides at the end, as the busy atmosphere of “It’s Gonna Be Alright” recruits countless influences into the melodic and vocally expressive exit.
Sounds has a strong background in jazz, and that combined with her more recent endeavors with rock music come together here with soul, blues, country and pop ideas that unfold with a timeless, universal appeal.
Travels well with: Tori Amos- Little Earthquakes; Regina Spektor- Begin To Hope