Dori Freeman (from the album Do You Recall

Dori Freeman (from the album Do You Recall

Dori Freeman (from the album Do You Recall available on Blue Hens Music) (by Lee Zimmerman)
 
Dori Freeman has shaped a sound synonymous with her Appalachian origins over the course of her five studio albums, sharing homespun sentiments and down-home designs flush with easy accessibility. Do You Recall doesn’t veer decidedly from that singular stance, but it does expand the template to a certain extent, sharing songs that are somewhat broader in scope and melodies that find a fit with mainstream Americana.
 
Produced by Teddy Thompson, and given the help and support of her husband and drummer Nicholas Falk, the new album tackles subjects ranging from motherhood and marriage to life in the rural realms of modern-day Appalachia. The softer strains of her earlier music still resonate through songs such the title track and “Wrong Direction”, but given the earnest Rocker “Good Enough” (featuring Thompson on backing vocals), the solid shuffle of “Movie Screen”, the particular pulse of “River Runs”, and the seemingly unsettled “Why Do I Do This to Myself”, Freeman appears to favor a tougher and more tenacious stance. The change in tone suits her well, and even when she opts to shift and sway on the seemingly euphoric “Rid My Mind”, the uncertainty allows for a cheerful turn. Dori Freeman’s sweet and seemingly effortless vocals underscore the shimmering sounds that grace the album overall, creating a series of shared serenades that reinforce the album’s eager appeal.
 
While Do You Recall retains that intimate approach throughout, the music Dori Freeman makes sounds richer and fuller than before, and on a song such as “They Do It Like That”, the matter-of-fact attitude provides additional cause for contemplation. So too, when she sings of everyday circumstance, as on the track titled “Laundromat” she makes it easy to find common cause. The closing number, “Gonna Be a Good Time” features cooing harmonies that effectively enhance that feeling of carefree contemplation.
 
Lovely and lilting to a decided degree, Do You Recall is, as its title implies, a sweet and serendipitous experience. It’s hard to imagine an album more engaging or enticing.  (by Lee Zimmerman)
 
Listen and buy the music of Dori Freeman from AMAZON
For more information, please visit the Dori Freeman website