Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

Joy Whitlock is in the process of being developed by Memphis record label Ardent and groomed for a full length album. As a taster and a way of testing people's reaction to her, this five song EP has been released Stateside. "Cost Of Being Free" is a medium paced opener where Whitlock backed by band set out their stall with a song strong in melody and with a few rootsy rock flourishes. Things get a little louder on "Don't Look Down" where Whitlock starts tilting her head back and getting angst ridden. "Traces Of You" is quieter and more acoustic although vocally still intense! "Fake" is a slow burner, starting off quietly and then building as the song emerges into a guitar-driven slab of emotional pop rock. "Colors" finishes everything off quietly. My conclusion is that while she is blessed with an expressive, emotional voice, she's slightly let down by the material here and the fact that she's not yet settled on who she is going to be musically. Anything from Alanis to Plumb is possible. The full length album will reveal all. This is a good start but I'm looking for something slightly more hooky and arresting. She's not quite there yet.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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