Stories by Addison Road

Reviewed by Simon Eden

Back in 2007 Cross Rhythms interviewed Dallas' Addison Road and described them as having the "talent to become international stars". This is the album that could well take them there. Considering the number of guitar-based albums out there to make a simple rhythm guitar sound as crisp as the introduction to "Need You Now" or "Fight Another Day" shows the masterly level of production on 'Stories'. Throughout the arrangements here make every instrument clear and distinct though still allowing Jenny Simmons' vocals to soar over the top. Although Jenny's intuitively expressive vocals occasionally have the country tinge of a Shania Twain, there is punchy pop rock and pristine pop delivered here. "Don't Wait" takes an electronic lead but flips teenage delusions of indestructibility on their head as she sings, with powerful provocation, "Today I lost a friend of mine/I thought we had time to burn". "Change In The Making" is a song dealing with sanctification ("Every day I'm closer to who I'm meant to be") whilst "This Little Light Of Mine" is, like the LZ7 hit, inspired by the ancient Sunday school ditty and though nothing at all like the Manchester musicianaries track, is equally effective in conveying the need for all believers to be lights shining for Christ. All in all, a finely crafted album that builds on the band's previous self-titled album. If there's a better American pop release this year, I've not heard it.