Thoughtful, Introspective, Uplifting, Encouraging
by MusicGuy1
Self-described on her “MySpace” page as “Christian/Alternative/Acoustic”, my ears originally told me “Return” by Esther Rose Neal has more of a Rhythm and Blues influence than it does “Alternative”. Her sound is not reminiscent of anybody I can think of in recent memory, and therefore it is truly unique. While speaking with her on the phone last week I found that her publicist had just as much trouble classifying her music as I originally did, calling it “Contemporary Christian Pop fused with Funk, Rhythm and Blues, Classic Rock, Gospel, Alternative and Jazz elements. Phew! That was a mouthful! (But it's accurate, believe it!) .
Esther’s debut album is a lyrically delightful compilation of ballads, psalms and praise music, with a R&B/Rock/Funk “edge” that makes me feel good whenever I listen to it. This first effort from a rising Southern California musician is worth looking into! Backed by an excellent group of studio musicians, Ms. Neal does an excellent job on Acoustic Guitar on every cut. Her lead vocals, supported by a mini-choir of background vocalists, are strong and clear.
Because the lyrics are not buried by the instruments, there is no mistaking what Esther Rose Neal is trying to communicate through her music. The listener can undoubtedly rest secure in the knowledge that there are still artists out there (and Esther is one of them!) who “put their lyrics where their faith is” (instead of watering down what their message is saying for the sake of commercialism). That effect was intentional, and was the result of anyone and everyone who was involved in the making of this recording praying over every track and every decision that was made in its recording and production.
There is a lot to like about this CD (like the killer Lead Guitar solo in “Already a Star” and the awesome bass guitar work on “From You”) and not much at all to dislike. The only thing that falls into the latter category really just comes down to a matter of the divergent vocal and musical styles expressed in it. Once I got used to the wide variety and range of styles bursting forth on this project, it really grew on me! I find myself humming the tunes or “playing them over in my head” (as well as really thinking about what the songs are saying) whenever some other music isn’t on.
On the really extreme, totally positive side, combined with the lyrically excellent content of this recording, the one thing that stands out to me is this: When Esther is alone with God and her guitar, her “true center”, her “natural essence”, her “heart of hearts”, musically-speaking and message-wise really comes out and shines forth as evidenced by the worship song “You Delight In Me”. After listening to that cut, I was left tearful and wanting more of the same. We can only hope that God will inspire Esther to do an “unplugged” CD some day!
Something else that I found really inspiring and refreshing about Esther is her transparency and honesty. If you check out her web site you can read a brief bio, telling a little about her musical and ministry history. But if you really want to “know the heart” of this talented artist, check out her “MySpace” site. After you read that, check out her “Song Stories”, which are the back-story behind each of several songs on “Return”.
Happy Listening, and God Bless!
Tim Mrva
September 2006
