I first discovered Grace Potter and her band the Nocturnals 2 years ago when they were opening up for Gov't Mule in Philadelphia PA. I remember thinking "what a name for a band". While I was not completely blown away, I was impressed with the band as a whole and Grace Potters voice and keyboard skills in particular. When she came up to sing "Take Me To The River" with Gov't Mule I realized what a seasoned performer she really is.
A later headlining show cemented their growing presence in my CD collection.
This is the third disc I have purchased by Grace Potter. Ironically I purchased them in reverse order of release. Which is ok and a cool way to discover a band. This CD features the drummer and guitarist from the Nocturnals with a different bass player, a guest keyboardist on organ and 2 different female backing vocalists. Grace Potter handles piano, Fender Rhoads and lead vocals. She had not branched out into the guitar yet, and the now signature Hammond B3 stylings are handled by another, but she clearly had her musical identity in place. While the album features the blues and jazz influence the Nocturnals have used as a solid foundation, the more overt rock and pop influences have not crept into the bands sound here.
This album is a keeper and well worth the price. The tunes are all solid, with a few I would like to hear the Nocturnals include in their live setlist. It also gives a look into Grace Potters early efforts and allows one to better see the evolution of her and her band. Very Cool.
