Pleasureville
Geminigirl | Philadelphia, PA United States | 08/14/2008
(4 out of 5 stars)
"This sophomore offering from Lizz Fields is terrific - it shows improvement in her song writing skills and the overall production of this project. There are definitely more radio-friendly tracks than on her debut which had a more mellow vibe.
Lizz is another under the radar singers who, if given a platform could really draw in fans much like Corinne Bailey Rae whose album I found most comparable to PLEASUREVILLE. It's notable that Lizz co-exec produced the album in addition to co-writing all tracks just as she did on her debut. Lizz has a really pleasant voice and reminds me of Jill Scott in her phrasing of the lyrics - she doesn't scat and one can clearly hear the lyrics of each song. The saddest thing is that because Lizz is on an independent label, there may be no video to support one of the catchier songs and bring her to the attention of a wider audience.
My favorite tracks are:
PLEASUREVILLE - it opens with an interesting almost country/rock musical arrangement then segues into trippy beats
OASIS - beautifully spare production & lyrics which allows her vocals to shine
BROOKLYN FLOWERS - interesting arrangement that reminded me of music I'd hear in a 60's sitcom before moving to the break when she sings staccato - almost rapping the lyrics
SUGAH - toe-tapping doo-wop like track
DADDY'S CADDY - goes the funk route with a groovin bass & uptemo horns
INTERLUDE - wish this was a proper track & therefore LONGER!
DAY DAY DAY - melodic track about living for the moment & seizing the day
IT'S OK TO LOVE ME - interesting lyrics & arrangments power this ballad
RUNNIN ON EMPTY - uptempo track that reminds me a little of the current Alicia Keys' song, TEENAGE LOVE AFFAIR
Overall I am very satisfied with this album (which is offered in cd version from another site) and commend Lizz for successfully avoiding the "sophomore jinx". I truly hope that one of the tracks catches on and helps to set her career on fire."
Track Listings (15) - Disc #1