Play It Twice
Self-Released, 2019
8/10
Spearheaded by songstress Robin Lyn Treger, The Phoenix Project brings some serious talent in addition to Treger, including Steve Starger and Dave Stoltz, among others, as the all star ensemble deliver 4 strong, timeless Americana tunes here.
“(I Put My) Hand In The Fire” starts the EP with warm, soulful vocals in a groove friendly opener that flirts with blues and country sounds, too. “Vagabond Heart” then follows with a ballad feel, as emotive qualities infiltrate the rootsy track.
The last two tunes shine bright, too, and include the breezy melody and tropical backdrop of “Play It Twice”, where rhythm is present in spades, and the cautious yet playful exit, “The Way It Was”.
This Connecticut outfit cover a lot of bases here, especially some of the more expressive and sophisticated genres near Americana, and it should be very apparent to anyone who hears this EP that 4 tunes is just not enough. The best advice is in the album title, while we impatiently wait for an LP.
Travels well with: Tedeschi Trucks Band- Let Me Get By; Bonnie Raitt- Luck Of The Draw