Los Angeles, California. Sunshine. Beaches. Good times. Not the kind of place usually associated with social commentary. At least, not these days anyway. Even though this album was released in 2003, it has a message that remains relevant today.
Staring off with a testament to the state of the Land of the Free, Eva James delivers her political message effectively whilst her voice evokes Carly Simon and Rickie Lee Jones. Her liberal sentiments are also found in other songs on this album such as "Balcony" and "Brother". "Paradigm" shows a softer side to her song writing aided by some effective, jazzy guitar work from Mark Haynes. Best track was "Good Life" that reflects the changing role of women in society against a classy piece of pop-rock.
Feisty and clearly unafraid to speak her mind, Eva James has given us a mature collection of songs that make us think. Wrapped up in a slickly produced, immaculately arranged package, you might miss just how intelligent these songs are on the first listen. When you return for the second listen (and you will), you will therefore appreciate it even more. Available from CDBaby.