Review: Grace Potter & the Nocturnals

Live acoustic version of "Low Road" at YouTube

"The star-making machinery," as Joni Mitchell described it, is in overdrive for Grace Potter & the Nocturnals.

I don't like it. The roots-rock-jam band's new album is on sale for $6.99 at Amazon and at Best Buy. The latter's version contains video content.

The enchanting nouveau hippie depicted in the lovely "Low Road" video is largely absent from the new slick and polished eponymous album. The relaxed vibe on display here is spoiled by unflattering stabs at crossover.

I can't fault Hollywood Records. Their heavy-handed approach will probably pay off. Potter may soon enjoy the same level of celebrity attained by the Black Crowe's Chris Robinson and Blues Traveler's John Popper. (Careful, Grace- fame didn't necessarily agree with those men.)

Even though I don't care for the new album, I can't wait to hear songs like "Hot Summer Night" live. Grace Potter & the Nocturnals are an exceptional live act. An over-produced album shouldn't change that.


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(Original image by There Stands the Glass.)