With the over-abundance of uncreative musicians coming out of the woodwork lately, passing off unpassionate lyrics and covering up their lack of talents with mid-drift shirts and extensions, it is refreshing to hear the soulful beats and rhythmic chimes of an innovative artist with an eclectic style. These are attributes possessed by singer/songwriter Shea Seger (pronounced SHAY) and her debut album “The May Street Project.”
Seger, 21, goes beyond her years to produce an album that is surprisingly mature and developed for an artist her age. The album combines strong drum beats, some techno rhythm, classical guitar and even some rap and hip-hop grooves that are accentuated by Seger’s strong but emotional voice. The combination of styles used throughout the album make it sound as though each track was performed by a different artist, yet they are tied together by Seger’s passionate “coming of age” lyrics, according to her press release.
“This album embodies the spirit of a memoir,” Seger said. “My life has been a real roller coaster ride, and that’s the theme running through the album.”
Seger recorded “The May Street Project” in London under the production of Martin Terefe, and it was mixed by Commissioner Gordon (Lauryn Hill). Seger’s CD has already been released in the United Kingdom, and she has gained tour experience by opening for the band James.
Growing up in Texas, this Ft. Worth native lets some of her southern roots flow through a couple of songs, especially “I Can’t Lie.” But her powerful, almost Janis Joplin-like voice, gives the song an edgy, high-powered feel.
Seger’s first track, “Last Time,” isn’t as good or original as the rest of her songs, so skip straight to track two, “Clutch,” which is noticeably more creative and innovative. “Shatterwall” and “Isn’t it Good” are probably Seger’s strongest songs on the album, with their compelling lyrics as well as relaxing beats, making Seger an artist that can be taken seriously.
The song “Blind Situation” starts with a strong acoustic bass and smooth lyrics, then is accompanied by rapper Pharrell Williams of the Neptunes, giving the song a creative hip-hop feel.
To sum up the sounds that were heard, Seger ranges from musical degrees of anything from Beck and Bjork to Patsy Cline and Rickie Lee Jones. Then she moves into more of a Joni Mitchell or even Ani DiFranco demeanor, compiling this CD into a broad spectrum of sounds and lyrics, making it an album you can add to your collection and actually listen to.
Seger’s seductive sounds hit college radio in early March and will be on store shelves sometime in June.
