Alice Howe (from the album Circumstance

Alice Howe (from the album Circumstance

Alice Howe (from the album Circumstance available on Know Howe Music) (by Lee Zimmerman)
 
While some may be tempted to label Alice Howe simply another love-torn balladeer, the fact is nothing could be further from the truth. She’s part of a musical continuum that could be traced to other women with similar insight, instincts, and intelligence — Carole King, Bonnie Raitt, Annie Lennox, and so many others that wrote and sang songs that expressed a knowing opinion on life, love and all things that are intertwined and in-between.
 
Consequently, there’s nothing timid or tepid about the music she makes. She’s a sturdy, assured artist that operates from a firm foundation, one that’s informed by credence and conviction. Her new album, Circumstance, makes that clear, living up to its title with songs that cover a vast emotional spectrum. She refuses to allow herself to get caught up in self-pity, remorse or resignation, choosing instead to confront any given situation with clarity and wisdom, which, in turn, results in a set of songs that reflect reason and measured emotion. Howe possesses a clear-eyed perspective, and together with her ringing melodies and insightful observations, she reinforces her reputation as an artist who is consistently knowing and yet nuanced.  She conveys both stoicism and sensibility in equal measure, and as a result, certain truths become clear.
 
Ultimately then, the gentle rapture of “You’ve Been Gone So Long”, the rollicking break-up narrative “Somebody’s New Lover Now”, and the assured, assertive “Let Go”, offer a realistic assessment of relationship woes and the changes in status that occur in their wake. On certain other songs — the reassuring ballad It’s How You Hold Me” and the brassy yet benign “With You by My Side”, Alice Howe regales in comfort and contentment, bringing the good feelings front and center.
 
With an instrumental assist from studio stalwarts Freebo (who doubles on bass and production), guitarists Jeff Fielder and Will McFarlane, drummer Justin Holder, and renowned keyboard players Clayton Ivey and Mark Jordan, Circumstance literally seems to soar. A solid set of songs, it establishes Alice Howe as a multi-faceted performer who freely expresses her instincts and intelligence through both passion and persuasion.  (by Lee Zimmerman)
 
Listen and buy the music of Alice Howe from AMAZON
 
For more information, please visit the Alice Howe website