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MEL PARSONS: Over My Shoulder

This debut album is instantly catchy and enjoyable, a beautiful collection of songs ranging from country and folk to pop, with an underlying jazzy vibe keeping the rhythm. This West Coast native has assembled some very talented souls to back her. Don McGlashan, The Sami Sisters, Lisa Tomlins, Neil Watson and Rhythm Kings all add their talents to the album’s uplifting and natural sound. On the more bouncy tracks like Darlin’ Darlin’ and Pleasure & Pain Parsons vocals take on a fun, bubbly quality similar to those of British pop star Kate Nash. When she slows things down for Against the Tide and Falling For You, her voice deepens and becomes more resonant. The second half of the album would have benefited from another upbeat track, but it’s hard to fault the musicianship, finely crafted songs, pure harmonies and infectious positivity. Engineered by Richard Shirley, produced with the help of David Long and mastered by Mike Gibson, Parsons has clearly managed to sway several established industry figures with her skills, and she will sway you too. •

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