On September 21, 2010, singing sensation Rhonda Vincent released her album Taken, via her own record label, Upper Management Music. It debuted at #21 on the Country Album Charts, as well as #131 on the Billboard 200 all-genre charts.
Singles from the CD
In late June of 2010, the first single released to radio was "Sweet Summertime," a tune in which Vincent reminisces about all the fun and enjoyable activities one may do in the summer.
The follow-up single was "When the Bloom Is Off the Rose," where her two daughters, Sally Berry and Tensel Sandker, who are known professionally as the musical duo Next Big Thing, provide the background vocals.
The title track is a stunning ballad, in which veteran pop singer Richard Marx joins Vincent on harmony, and both artists' voices blend so well together.
Noteworthy Cuts
It opens with the up-tempo "Court of Love," a catchy tune that features Vincent on exceptional mandolin and banjo instrumentation.
Country queen Dolly Parton is featured on the backing vocals of "In the Garden By The Fountain," and Vincent does justice on her cover of Barbara Mandrell's "Tonight My Baby's Coming Home," and gives it a rustic, yet fresh feel.
In the ballad "A Little At A Time," she showcases her dynamic vocal range by hitting the high notes. "Song of a Whirlpool" is one of the slower vocals on the record; meanwhile "Ragin' Live For You Tonight" is an up-tempo and autobiographical recording for Vincent and her road band, The Rage.
The up-tempo "God is Watching" is the sole gospel tune on the record, where she shows her vocal prowess as a potential gospel vocalist.
It closes with the inspirational "You Must Have a Dream," where she is joined by young musicians, Isaac Moore and Hannah Harper, who help her convey the theme of this optimistic song. An empowering lyric from this poignant tune is as follows: "just fill your hearts with hope, and you will find your dreams."
The Verdict
All in all, Taken is a substantial indication that Vincent has recorded an eclectic and remarkable album, thus raising the standards of contemporary country and bluegrass. It is recommended for fans of the songstress, as well as listeners of folk, gospel, roots, and Americana music.
For more information on Rhonda Vincent and her music, visit her official website.
Markos Papadatos - Markos Papadatos holds over six years journalism experience, authoring over 700 articles, many of which are feature profile interviews.
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