Michele D’Amour & The Love Dealers – Ante Up

www.micheledamourandthelovedealers.com

Self Release

12 Songs – Total time – 42:07

Good news and bad news about Washington State’s Michele D’Amour & The Love Dealers’ new album, Ante Up.

The good news is a fine piano player in Sue Oehlrich and a capable guitarist and rhythm section. Now for the bad news…Michele D’Amour sings the lyrics in a monotone delivery. The album includes roots rock with dashes of blues. The songs veer from blues-rock to blues.

Lyrics like “Like an E ticket on Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride” and “We Don’t Wear Spandex In The Blues” seem questionable.

“Memory” is a well intentioned and heartfelt song about family members with Alzheimer’s, a disease that affects two of the band members parents. It looks good on paper, but translated to a song it’s a bit tedious.

“Hurricane” is an upbeat accordion-driven tune, but the lyrics bog it down. “Jealous” and “Dress Code” feature some powerful guitar playing by Greg Dolan.

Sue Oehlrich’s energetic and tasteful piano playing throughout is a highlight of this CD.  The band has good intentions. The music is well performed but maybe they need some better quality songs and a more energetic delivery.