Album Name: The Whistle Stop Road Record
Artist: Coles Whalen
Year/Label: 2009 / Independent
[Buy at Amazon]
Review by Amy Lotsberg Producer of Collected Sounds
I’ve reviewed many of Coles Whalen’s records in the past and I’ve always enjoyed them. A song or two have even shown up on my mix CDs that I sing along with in the car (alone, of course). So I was happy to see her new release, Whistle Stop Road Record.
I love this album. It’s live, recorded in various cities across the US. and you can tell what a pro she is. I’d love to see her live. Sounds like she kicks some ass.
I love Go Child. It’s bluesy, yes, but I like it. See, miracles can happen. I generally don’t like blues, but when it’s done well, I can really get into it.
Whistle Stop is actually more country, or is it honky tonk?
Wrecking Ball is emotional and catchy. She also does a version of Dire Straits’ Romeo and Juliet. Great cover.
What’s up with Hurricane (Wicked Won Remix)? It’s super electro-disco! Not that there’s anything wrong with that. Just that when I was shuffling this with other albums, I about fell off my chair when I heard it and looked to realize it was her. It’s cool though!
There’s a good mix of styles here (blues, country, jazz, pop) but the constant is Whalen’s wonderful vocals and ability to write a fantastic song.
Track Listing
1. Whistle Stop
2. Go Child
3. Butterflies
4. Hole In My Heart
5. Wrecking Ball
6. So It Is
7. Romeo and Juliet
8. Average 20 Something
9. Call On Me
10. Wake Up Easy
11. Hurricane (Wicked Won Remix)
12. Go Child (Radio Edit)