Wide Awake
Mascot Label Group, 2021
8/10
At just 22 years old, the singer-songwriter and guitarist Quinn Sullivan is already on his 4th album, and he’s expanding on his creativity and universally enjoyable song craft with much thoughtfulness and sincerity.
“All Around The World” starts the listen with smooth, agile vocals as upbeat drumming and fluid guitars highlight the flowing, groove filled climate, and “She’s So Irresistible” follows with a funky spirit as a playfulness unfolds alongside a rugged delivery of grit and melody.
Further along, “She’s Gone (& She Ain’t Coming Back)” offers soulful pop nods as Sullivan displays much mature skill, while “Baby Please” is tailor made for the FM dial with its heartfelt, melodic singer-songwriter approach. “You’re The One”, one of the album’s best, is then perfect for summertime fun, where driving with the windows down and blasting your favorite soaring, pop melodies are encouraged.
Landing close to the end, the ballad “Jessica” makes great use of acoustic guitar and Sullivan’s flawless singing as he plays will a talent well beyond his years, and “Keep Up” exits the listen with sophisticated piano amid a lush, pretty landscape.
An artist who is getting better and evolving with each subsequent record, Sullivan has been touring the world since he was 11 years old and has already shared the stage with Buddy Guy and Carlos Santana. Most importantly, though, he can pen a song that you won’t forget anytime soon and will want to revisit often, as evidenced by this articulate and diverse effort.
Travels well with: Gina Sicilia- Love Me Madly; Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band- Straight To You Live