Devon Sproule
(Black Hen Music)
Singer/songwriter Devon Sproule and her husband, guitarist Paul Curreri have successfully pursued parallel careers for several years now, so it's all but inevitable that their musical paths would cross on occasion. Curreri's tribute to his wife, Songs for Devon Sproule, offered her an homage that affirmed the couple's trajectory was inextricably connected (while hopefully scoring Paul some valuable points at home as well), and the fact that he produced her latest, while also touting his own fine new effort, California, draws their bonds that much closer. Regardless, Don't Hurry For Heaven, Sproule's fourth effort to date, reflects a distinctive style all her own, with Curreri taking his lead from her, and not the other way around.
Consequently, Sproule continues to reveal a sensual, seductive allure that puts her stamp on every track, varying by degrees from a saunter to a sway. The easy ambiance imbued in the title tune, with its gentle lilt and pervasive steel guitar, is more a variation on a theme as opposed to any break in mood. Likewise, the perky sentiments of "Good to Get Out" and the sprightly sentiments of "Bowling Green" further affirm the easy-going vibe. Yet, while the wistful "A Picture of Us in the Garden," with Sproule singing solo, initially appears a simple celebration of homespun habits, the final stanzas are somewhat revealing:
"Honey, how are we supposed to ever have
us a family.
When the business won't give us a buck,
I guess it's pretty lucky
I'm still pretty young."
Given its air of optimism, Don't Hurry For Heaven suggests that Sproule's got plenty of good fortune to look forward to.
DOWNLOAD: "A Picture of Us in the Garden," " Don't Hurry For Heaven," " Good to Get Out" LEE ZIMMERMAN
