"Traveling Like the Light" by V.V. Brown
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The sixties-evoking trend has been in full swing for a few years, from “Baby Spice” Emma and Amy Winehouse to the Pipettes and the Puppini Sisters.  However, most of the artists hearkening back to an earlier time seem to really eschew current musical trends in favor of aiming for a different sound. This is not so with V.V. Brown, whose debut album, “Travelling Like the Light,” is available on iTunes right now and will see a physical release on March 30.

The first thing you notice when listening to V.V. Brown is an energy that feels very 2010, but has musical illusions to an earlier time.  The vocal layerings and beats are in the now, with arrangements that feel very current, yet certain instrumentation and other layers occasionally trigger that nostalgia vibe.

Single “Shark in the Water” is a great example of the mix.  The horns and mood of the song feels at times 1960s, but the hard edge during the chorus is something more common in the present day.  Throughout, Brown’s emotive voice shines through like a beacon, with vocal coos in the backing vocals that accent the song beautifully.

Some songs drift into the past more than others. “Leave!” has a 60s groove, with the hand claps and piano chugging groove and has a softer feel than some of her other tracks, especially the lead-off tracks.  “Crying Blood” has a retro groove, more obvious when you get to the chorus, but it feels more modern during the verses.  

“Game Over,” on the other hand, is a very current R&B confection that just uses a bit of classic-era instrumentation to blend it in with other tracks on the album. A similar approach is taken for the upbeat “Everybody,” which loops the tamborine and cuts the vocals together in a way that reminds you that it’s 2010, but still has some of the 60s-style instrumentation.

“I Love You” is a classic ballad, with simple lyrics and luscious backing vocals that sends a chill down your spine.  The ballad is sparse, but very emotive, and you can really feel the passion there.

While many albums evoke the girl group/singer format, “L.O.V.E.” feels more like a Jerry Lee Lewis-style track, and is as much fun as “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Going On,” for instance.

The album’s lyrics revolves around loves had and loves lost, a common theme for 60s-era music (and pop music in general), and it fits the general mood of the music.

One thing that doesn’t deviate during the album is the absolute raw energy that Brown and company bring to the entire affair.  

One thing that they wisely lift from a previous time period is the more raw vibe and energy to the entire album.  The upbeat songs are energetic and pull you right in (try not to dance along to “Shark in the Water” or “L.O.V.E.”), while the ballads are emotional and moving.  Brown’s singing is lively, enjoyable and moody, a perfect companion to the backing music. The album doesn’t feel too contrived, forced or even overly produced, which is an amazing feat in an era where Autotune is employed as a common production device.

Brown has produced one of the more lively entries we’ve heard so far in 2010, and a great start for an impressive young singer.  Those who enjoy music with a bit of soul, a lot of heart and fairly free of overproduced garbage will find a lot to like here.  Be sure to get a copy of it; you’ll be glad you did.

Tags: 2010, 37-3, EARLY FEBRUARY