Sista Monica
Gifted vocalist Monica Parker is at her best when she relaxes and lets her talent flow naturally. Here, though, she is placed in contexts that favor aggression over subtlety.... The opener is a roadhouse flag-waver shot through with a searing, metallic guitar line and embellished by ballsy horn riffs.... Monica's roaring vocal navigates the melodic terrain with grace and dexterity, but her emotional range is strictly one-note.... The a cappella gospel closer, a heartfelt tribute to inspiration and faith, shows off Monica's voice at its most expressive and pristine; it's another indication that she is a gifted singer.... --Living Blues