Jessica Childress’ debut album, DAYS, is officially here. Her name might not sound familiar, but this Los Angeles based singer-songwriter is no stranger to the music industry. After appearing on Season 4 of The Voice, Jessica released an EP called Don’t Forget My Name, which she wrote and produced herself. You might also recognize her voice from her stint as a vocalist on Bob’s Burgers. Her full-length album, DAYS, highlights her soulful voice and expressive lyrics, and it is really reminiscent of ’60s and early ’70s R&B with some serious Diana Ross vibes.
If you want to get a taste of Jessica Childress’ sound, you should probably first check out her two singles “Starting Today” and “Far Away.” In “Starting Today,” her raw vocals and emotional belting tell the story of letting go of a bad relationship and learning to love yourself. “Far Away” is a little more contemporary with a chorus almost reminiscent of “California Gurls” – this is definitely a song we can imagine playing on the radio in the warm weather driving with the windows down.
The third track on the album, “Slow Down,” defies its name with the foot-tapping beat and makes you want to dance. Childress is accompanied by back-up vocals that echo the sound of girls groups like The Shirelles or The Supremes. The next song, “Run,” is a little bit darker, with an edgy and upbeat driving rhythm as Childress sings about being stuck in a relationship.
“Contradictions,” the next track, certainly contradicts the sound of the previous few songs as Childress’ crooning voice creates a slow and easy feeling about trying to work things out and accepting the instability of a partner. “Never,” one of the album’s catchiest tracks, is a perfect embodiment of 60s R&B and pop. The electronic retro sounds make it hard not to dance along.
The last two songs on the album slow things down again. “Broken” is full of soul starting with a smooth piano and morphing into a steady guitar beat, Childress’ rhythmic voice grooves along with lyrics about working to reshape a relationship. “Waves” concludes the album in a dramatic, yet cool, way. Beginning with soft and gentle piano, the song is seductive, and it builds up to a strong chorus that cycles over and over with flowing harmonies, mirroring the sound of waves. The last minute emphasizes the instrumentals, with Childress’ vocals rushing over the music like waves rushing to the shore, and she definitely leaves us wanting more.
If you’re looking for some smooth vocals to warm your soul, or you’d like to hear a modern take on the golden age of R&B, then Jessica Childress is the girl for you. Listen to her album, DAYS, here:
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