Search - Chris Pureka :: Driving North

Stupendous Songwriting and Stunning Voice

Kenneth E. Knox | Los Angeles, CA United States | 07/08/2005

(4 out of 5 stars)

"If you're a fan of singer/songwriters along the lines of Patty Griffin, Cheryl Wheeler, Lucinda Williams and Elyza Gilkyson, then there's a fairly good chance that you will rejoice in the music of Chris Pureka. This New England-based folkie combines lyrical songwriting ability with an emotionally expressive (and thoroughly husky) voice, drawing you in with her simple homespun songs about heartache, happiness and the change of the seasons. Drenching the songs in the imagery of her surroundings, Pureka creates a soundtrack for East Coast travels, evoking some to compare "Driving North" to Bruce Springsteen's early '80s masterpiece "Nebraska." On gorgeous ballads like "Unwelcome" and "3 a.m.," she nails matters of the heart, while on driving, insistent tunes like the haunting "Silo Song" and "Reprieve," she does the same with a ferocity that will instantly capture your attention. Listen to any of those tunes (not to mention "Burning Bridges" or the urgently soulful "Porch Songs") and try not to instantly fall in love with Pureka's music. In fact, I dare you."

This is a story of Driving North

Amanda Nelson | Northampton, MA USA | 02/15/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This album is beautiful. Pureka's melodies invoke wonder and awe at how someone as young as she is can be so talented and able to express emotion in such a raw, powerful way. Her voice is an amazing instrument."

Utterly Amazing

Rachel Brubeck | Eugene, OR | 10/04/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I have seen Chris perform twice, everytime she plays she captivates her audience and wills a sense of calm. Her voice alone is enough to buy the cd, but the passion that lies under the surface is astounding, evoking images of torn lovers reminiscing about times past, silos full of hay and passionate love. Her music moves the soul."