Maci
Miller
A Very Good Night
I'm
probably not the first reviewer to begin a discussion about
Maci Miller by mentioning her appearance. The photos on her
Website and the sleeve art of her latest release, A Very
Good Night (Dreamcastle Records), are beautifully retro-styled
black and white shots of Ms. Miller in a variety of scenes
and poses. I imagine it is frustrating for her to have these
images receive as much or more attention as her music. But,
unfortunately, at times the photos are not the only distraction.
Ms.
Miller should be applauded for having written all ten songs
on the album, and the excitement she exhibits in her performances
shows her obvious love for the loungey/big band sounds being
mined. However, the foil to her excitement is her backing band,
which often seems sterile and sometimes downright bland. I can't
help but feel if there were more gut and more "oomph" in the
music and arrangements, this record would have made a greater
impression.
As
it stands, A Very Good Night demonstrates that Maci
Miller has potential as a vocalist, who could do quite well
with a stronger and richer backing. She should steer away
from the glitter and bright lights of the nightlife and more
toward the grit of back roads and woodsheds. With a little
dirt under her nails, I think she could produce some very
fine music.
Gary
A. Miller
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