Alana Davis
Fortune Cookies
(Elektra Entertainment)
By: Jeff Leisawitz - ModernRock.com
Alana Davis' debut CD, Blame it on Me, fused modern production and soul savvy songwriting with the singer's delicious voice and acoustic sensibilities. On Fortune Cookies, her 2001 release, Davis lays back on the production while she pushes forward stylistically in several directions.
The opening cut, "Save the Day," alternates between wah-wah punches and lush six string rhythms. Davis' voice is sure and strong here, measured carefully with truth and emotion as she delves into the mysteries and pains of her life.
"I Want You," the first single, is a straight shot for radio. The chorus hooks without compromise as the diva croons her desire. Co-penned by Third Eye Blind's Stephan Jenkins, this is Davis' best shot at a hit although not necessarily her finest moment.
Other cuts, most notably the breathy "When You Became King," "God of Love," and "A Chance with You," show this songwriter's voice is refined, deliberate and articulate.
But Davis is compelled to explore new territory. On "Got this Far," a reggae-esque rhythm invades the set and alters the flow. Then the retro funk of "Bye Bye" tells off a lover with no holds barred. This track, produced by The Neptunes, is equally cool even as it introduces an odd vibe into the set.
Davis explores many lyrical themes on this disc. One of the more introspective is "How Many of Us Have Them (Friends)." This remake of the Whodini classic taps the meaning of friendship and questions each of our relationships. "True friends show you more than you can see/ But some people leave you on your knees."
Alana Davis' Fortune Cookies is a record that picks up speed with each subsequent listen. The songs use cultured melodies and a velvety vocal delivery to sketch out their messages. This disc is by no means a re-run of Davis' debut, rather and expansion of this singer's heartfelt expression.
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