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Kristen Cothron, Love Letters From a Fool, 2006 (self-released, Indie)
Kristen Cothron's 2006 release Letters From a Fool is a solid blues record with crisp, polished production that is on par with major-label releases. Cothron's vocals and songwriting abilities are easily in the same ballpark as contemporaries Shelby Lynne and Josh Stone. Letters From a Fool, however, is self-released, and it's more than surprising that some two years later she is still without a label deal. The latter is no reflection on Cothron's abilities as a singer/songwriter. Take for example "Love is a Gamble," a bluesy guitar-heavy number that gives Page and Plant a run for their money—seriously. And the totally cool "Last Chance Girl" that embraces a kind of Chrissie Hynde Pretenders-esque version of rock 'n' roll with a kind of edgy vibrato à la Gwen Stefani. Indeed, Cothron's powerful vocals have earned her comparisons to Fiona Apple—and rightly so. But making a hit record is not easy, and Love Letters From a Fool has its faults. The first track, "Dangerous," is not the best track on the record, and the opening vocal line is fine, but not a good way to introduce Cothron's fantastic vocal ability. The soulfully ambient "RSVP" (track 6), on the other hand, offers an irresistible retro vibe that gradually introduces the listener to Cothron's amazing range and versatility. "RSVP" should be the first track. And although the production quality is polished, and the players are solid, Cothron's music could benefit from a more authentic blues vibe not unlike that achieved by Cat Power on her recent recordings. Regardless, there's plenty on Love Letters From a Fool to enjoy, and it would be wise (and profitable) for record companies to start paying attention to this talented Nashville native. Cothron continues to tour regularly in support of Love Letters from a Fool, and she and her band will be performing on March 5 at The End in Nashville. Fans of Shelby Lynne and others mentioned above will not be disappointed. — Vincent Wynne, February 24, 2008
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