Truth Be Told
Cafe Pacific, 2023
8/10
An autobiographical listen from the vocalist/songwriter Angie Wells, there’s a large cast of players present to flesh out the 13 covers and 4 originals.
“There’s Always Time For Lovin’” begins the listen with Kye Palmer’s bright trumpet and Jacob Scesney’s soulful tenor sax complementing Wells’ rich and playful pipes in the frisky opener, and “Do I Move You” follows with a calm and powerful display of heartfelt song craft thanks to Larry Koonse’s warm guitar amid the expressive singing.
Further on, Valerie Gleason’s snapping and clapping adds much to the gospel feel of “Truth Be Told”, while “You Don’t Know What Love Is” features John Clayton’s precise bass for the intimate moment that’s minimal but impactful.
Deep onto the back half, Josh Nelson’s dreamy keys suit Wells’ gorgeous pipes for the balladry of “I Wish I’d Met You”, and the upbeat “I’ve Got A Feeling” recruits Clayton Cameron’s crisp drums, Carey Frank’s organ and plenty of backing vocals for a glorious, universally embraceable exit.
Wells uses blues, jazz, R&B and soul to her advantage, and this sophomore release solidifies her as a talent that any listener will benefit from in soul, mind and body.
Travels well with: Cecilia Smith- The Mary Lou Williams Resurgence Project: Volume One; Mafalda Minnozzi- Natural Impressions