Gina Sicilia – Can’t Control Myself 4.1.11

For The Best Video Links In The Blues Follow Us On Twitter!

Follow @BluesRevue

Gina Sicilia

Can’t Control Myself

VizzTone/Swingnation Records

BluesWax Rating: 9

Blossoming Beauty

In 2007, when Gina Sicilia released her debut CD, Allow Me to Confess, she received rave reviews and a 2008 Blues Music Award nomination as Best New Artist. Admittedly there were moments of brilliance, especially on her Big Maybelle and Etta James covers, but I personally found her own songs depressing, although skillfully produced. Her sophomore effort, Hey Sugar, displayed better songwriting but weaker song selection.

On Can’t Control Myself, Sicilia’s third Vizztone/Swingnation release, she gives us her most complete performance to date. Sicilia likes to modulate her voice as it fires her up. Her vocals and songwriting here are her best to date.

Sicilia wrote seven new songs for this album. “Before the Night is Through” is a well done re-write of “Save The Last Dance for Me.” All the other originals are well constructed including the opening track, “Addicted,” the title track “Can’t Help Myself,” and the closer “Once in a While.” Also included are excellent covers of Willie Dixon’s “Crazy ’Bout You Baby,” Bobby “Blue” Bland’s “Members Only,” and Stevie Wonder’s “A Place in The Sun.”

Dave Gross once again is producer, guitarist, and musical director. Their new rockin’ approach serves Sicilia well. Her voice has the power to keep up with his high-pressured guitar. Gross plays all guitars including acoustic, electric, slide, and bass. He also plays all keyboards, percussion, and drums. Saxophonist Matt Cowan and Jon-Erik Kellso on trumpet guest on several tracks.

I wasn’t prepared for this album with its newfound consistency and maturity. At a recent show Sicilia performed songs from this album, and her passionately intense performance was captivating. Now is the time to see this blossoming talent.

Richard Ludmerer is a contributing editor to BluesWax. He may be reached by commenting below.