The latest release from Ranzel K. Kendrick under the moniker Alias Wayne
continues Kendrick’s long tradition of pursuing traditional music with a
personalized twist. “Ms. Mystery” opens with a tasty mix of blues
acoustic guitar motifs that go much further than most illustrious Delta
blues predecessors or their ilk. Electric guitar soon finds its way into
the musical framework and the expert weaving of the arrangement’s
disparate elements into an overall whole creates an immediate mood.
Kendrick’s confidence is audible. He’s creating a musical world that
immediately draws listeners in.
The vocals seal the deal. Kendrick has an one of a kind voice that
blends assorted influences with the same personalized stamp as the
music. There’s a smoky ambiance in his approach without ever straining
for effect. His lyrics are evocative without ever being painfully
specific. His command of pseudo-Biblical language and symbolism sets him
apart from his peers and contemporaries alike. Kendrick’s vocal phrasing
adds reams of meaning to the performance.
The addition of a backing female vocalist further enhances the
experience. Using this secondary singer isn’t overstated and instead
adds a further soulful quality to the performance. Kendrick likewise
tailors the song’s length to maximize the song’s impact. It’s the mark
of superior songwriting and his veteran outlook. Kendrick comes across
as a musical artist at the peak of his considerable powers. The
production is a similar thing framing the song in the best sonic light.
Kendrick has been steadily building a legacy along the fringes of
popular music. Nephew of the great Roger Miller, performer of the iconic
classic “King of the Road” among countless others, Kendrick is no
stranger to the needed artistry to create timeless tunes. “Ms. Mystery”
consciously, but never pretentiously, reaches for that timelessness and
succeeds on all counts. Despite the imagery laden throughout his lyrics,
they are accessible for any intelligent and devoted music fan.
We need music such as this more than ever in our modern world.
Kendrick’s “Ms. Mystery” is rife with dynamic instrumentation, more than
a spark of inspiration, and a willingness to meet the listener head on.
He never panders with cliched turns, either musically or lyrically. It’s
vibrant. He has a sure hand for knowing how to end a song as well. “Ms.
Mystery” comes to a compelling conclusion with the way it seemingly
unravels into the ether, smacking of the same mysteries that he refers
to throughout the composition.
WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA:
This prolific artist will be with us, under whatever guise, for many
years to come. His homegrown brand of authenticity shows no signs of
wear and he’s willing to attempt breaking new ground with each new
recording. You can’t help but have confidence in such a performer and
artist.
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