Traci Gott Reed CD Review

Traci Gott Reed
Pretty Is As Pretty Does
Self-released 884502007602
***
A real mixed bag of traditional and modern songs
Music has always been in Traci’s blood. A Kentucky girl at heart Traci could sing before she could walk and play the piano before she could ride a bike. A farm girl Traci went to Los Angeles to experience life and to learn about the world from the people in it. These experiences along with her southern roots would become the backbone of her music. Traci’s ethos has always been that music is a way of connecting with people and that you can reach out to anyone through music. Traci is strongly grounded with her feet firmly on the floor. She may have moved to the big city but she has never forgotten her roots or her upbringing. Traci is a naturally pretty girl who captivates everyone with her blend of country/pop infused music. Traci lists her influences, as including, John Mayer, John Mellencamp and The Dixie Chicks. The album kicks off with Pick A Card, a punchy song with a catchy melody. Traci’s voice is infectious and soon hooks the listener. Although modern in style there is still something old fashioned about Traci’s music on her faster numbers. Naked To Your Eyes is a slower song. Traci’s vocals have an earthy sound. I Asked For An Angel is an impressive song. Very modern in feel, this is more of a pop song than a country song. It oozes with quality and is reminiscent of the music of Amy Grant. Dry It Up is a fast paced number that sees the mood of the album really shaken up. Spirit Of You sees the pace slowed down once again. This is another confident classy song that carefully blends pop with country. Maybe has more of a country feel. A slightly faster number with an original sound. Our Lives Have Just Begun is an amazing song with a fresh breezy feel. This song stands head and shoulders above the other songs on this album. Lil’ Harsey is a rocky song with a toe tapping beat. I Lost Myself is yet another slow ballad that screams quality. Blues Mixed With My Country is definitely a country flavoured song as the title suggests. The album ends with the title song Pretty Is As Pretty Does. This is a lively Pam Tillis styled song. Catchy and infectious this song leaves the listener wanting more. This album is a real mixed bag. Slow pop infused ballads entwined with traditional country songs. Traci’s voice is raspy and really reels the listener in on her faster numbers but on the slower ballads she is highly polished. This is a strong album, which showcases Traci’s many musical talents.