Shari Puorto – Hold On
Self Release
8 songs time – 33:55
Although Shari Puorto is hyped as a blues and roots singer, this is mainly a singer-songwriter effort. Shari co-wrote all of the songs.
A bit of blues and blues-rock can be found in the musical accompaniment. Her songs eschew melody. Great backing musicians supply the musicality here.
“Hold On” contains a good guitar riff and solos by Ryan Ball. “Where Is All The Great Music Going?” had me until the song’s end. More good riffing on “Cyclone” with its’ echoed vocal.
Co-producer Doug Woolverton adds his trumpet to the funky beat and wah-wah guitar of “In The City”. She makes an emotional plea for her man on “Why Not Me?”, a song Shari co-wrote with the great Barry Goldberg. Scott Chasolen contributes piano and organ.
“Forever More” is a tender ballad enhanced by chiming guitar, piano and organ. Things get funked up on the bouncy “You’re Right, I’m Wrong For You”. A nice organ solo is the icing on the cake. The gentle funky vibe of “Home Bound” wraps up the proceedings.
Well played music supporting the vocals. It is all presented in a matter-of-fact style. Some folks will find much to like here.
