Published on Jun 19, 2020
A record largely influenced by some of the most notable songwriters of the '70s, Grace Gravity's Dream Analog was captured live in a small home studio and recorded, mixed, and mastered analog. Later on, overdubs of horns, keys, percussion, and backing vocals were added with much meticulousness, giving the album a very warm, crisp feeling.
The cautious listen leads with the soft acoustic strumming and sweet vocals from Teri Hitt on “It's Coming On,” which lays the foundation for the remainder of the album. “Go Ahead And Shine” then follows with a soothing, soft-rock quality as Hitt lets her strong pipes shine. “In The Center” continues with harmonizing backing vocals highlighting the folk rock approach.
The middle of the record offers some of the best tunes, including the reflective “The Long Road,” where brass and piano work together in soulful ways, while “Who U R” picks up the pace with a punchy rock 'n' roll feel. “Something New Can Grow,” a standout track, then finds a pretty place to reside as cosmic moments mix with the slow burning introspection.
Deeper in the listen, “Sunny Side Of The Road” moves with light melodies and a breezy formula that's as timeless as it is memorable, and “Mother Earth” finishes out the listen with some of Hitt's best vocals, as a dreamy quality enters the very sophisticated landscape.
A record that definitely brings us back to simpler times, Dream Analog and Grace Gravity herself reminds us of all the things we find appealing about Joni Mitchell, Linda Ronstadt ,or Heart. It's all executed with sincerity, emotion and plenty of universal beauty.
During these hectic, often heated times, an album like Dream Analog is the perfect antidote to the chaos with its serene, almost meditative quality that would have been as relevant in the '60s as it likely will be 20 years from now.