Jennifer Ordalen CD Review

Jennifer Ordalen
Cracks In The Concrete
Self-released
****
Up-tempo country done really well
Jennifer Ordalen started on her musical carer aged just three. Growing up Jennifer was surrounded my many different musical styles and sounds including country, folk and rock. Jennifer’s new album CRACKS IN THE CONCRETE fuses together those musical styles as well as a few others. Jennifer joined her church choir at the age of five; it was then that her passion for singing was born. Jennifer’s main musical influence is Dolly Parton. Jennifer grew up in Minnesota and still lives there today, when she isn’t in Nashville. The album kicks off with a rousing country rock song called Ain't Nobody's Business. Jennifer’s sound is a mix of Miranda Lambert crossed with Gretchen Wilson on this opening number. My First Lover is a blues infused country song again with a heavy rocky feel. Jennifer has a strong voice, which is very distinct. Slow Suicide is a slightly slower song. Jennifer takes her vocals down a gear or two on this country song infused with a touch of soul. This song has an amazing sound and is really brought to life by Jennifer’s beautiful voice. End Of My World sees the mood shift up a gear. This is a heavy country/rock song. I Want It Anyway is an up-tempo bouncy rock infused country song. If you like fast paced country with a heavy feel then you are going to love Jennifer Ordalen. Another Woman is a slower song with a touch of soul and blues added to the country sound. Every so often Jennifer’s vocals remind me of Lorrie Morgan. Closed For Tonight is an amazing song. Jennifer’s vocals are rich and simply divine on this slow paced country/soul song. The title song Cracks In The Concrete is a fast paced rocky country song. Ain’t No Man is a blues infused country soul song. Slow Burn is a pop/rock song. Powerful vocals and heavy backing music give this song a distinct edge. Reba McEntire would not seem out of place singing this song. You’ve Met Your Match is a soulful country number. Too Long At The Fair is the final song on the album. A slow burning country song again tinged with a touch of soul. Jennifer brings each and every one of the songs on this album to life with her wonderful vocals.