Tyrone Wells-Hold On
(Universal
Republic)
Effortlessly combining pop, soul, folk and rock, Tyrone Wells has
masterfully crafted a perfect mainstream debut. The Seattle, Washington
native recently released Hold On, his first major label offering. He
previously released Hold On via the internet, building a buzz and
gaining a loyal fan base.
Hold On
opens with by far the strongest message on the album, all within “What Are
We Fighting For?” The words “It’s time to love one another/we’re sisters
and brothers/what are we fighting for?/Too many backs that are
breaking/lives being taken/What are we fighting for?” lead the
politically charged chorus. Fully equipped with a gospel choir, the message
of love not war resonates with great appeal.
The collection could easily be a letdown from this point on, but it remains
successful in well-crafted tracks. “Sea Breeze” is a pretty song, lamenting
about grace and beauty of a love interest. The unique comparison of his
lover to the winds comings off the coast are coupled with wispy guitars and
a passionate voice, Wells transplants listeners to the sunset on shoreline
walks. It is readily apparent that Wells has an appreciation for all
genres.
Hold On
dips its brush into every color of every genre, painting an irreplaceable
masterpiece. “Sugar So Sweet” is an example of a soulful, seductive record
similar to Prince. Wells voice is perfect for this genre-bending style,
with his edgy yet fluid deliver. He seems to make each song a different
journey, from the opening chords to the closing cymbal crash.
Hold On
is an addicting blend of everything right about music; passion, edge,
flawless musicianship, great songwriting and more than capable vocals. No
doubt Tyrone Wells will grab listener’s ears and take them along for what is
sure to be an engaging ride. You better hold on!
Abraham Kuranga
Copyright © 2007 PopEntertainment.com. All rights
reserved.
Posted: June 9, 2007.
