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A live album often will not translate well. However, on Lucky's "Live at the Elbow Room, NYC," we have an exact translation of a great performance by the New Jersey band.
The college-bound young women and gentleman who make up the band have
impressive musicality for their age, as evidenced on the live album. The
talent and control each has of the instruments has nothing to do with getting
lucky, to use the band's name, and instead shows expertise both innate and
acquired after practicing together over time.
The practice paid off -- you can hear the large audience on the live album,
but more importantly, you hear Lucky's talent. Rita's guitar coupled with
Bryan's bass lends a brooding and funky element to the music, but the parts
are quick-paced and are more than running scales.
There's a definite jazz element to the music, and also to Jessica's vocals.
Her voice is distinctive and award-winning: she has won the best female
vocals award from The Cove 2 years now, and one can hear why. Creating her
own category between growl and whisper, Jessica has twinges of Natalie
Merchant in her voice but has more bluesy-ness and gutsiness to it, so that
every lyric's emotional impact is multiplied.
The lyrics are often personal questions, that call out for answers, or
reflective requests: "Fly away with me," Jess sings, before the music takes
flight itself. There's an obvious empowerment in the lyrics that is much
appreciated.
On drums, Dara may not have the privilege of taking flight, because the beats
are grounded in the rhythm, which she keeps perfectly. The drums accentuate
and do not dominate -- all the elements interact in harmony. However, each
member shines in moments throughout the live cd, such as on Dara's drums on
Rita's Song/Outback."
The songs on the album are all catchy, moreso that they mesmerize. What is
also mesmerizing is that Lucky is still young in its sound, and admits freely
now is a time of exploration and development in its musical career. However,
the development and talent show itself here, already, and that has nothing
with getting lucky, but is everything about being the band Lucky.
Catherine Galioto is a Staff Writer. Contact her at msmatildarockzone.com.
