Release Date: December 9, 2024
Label: Mitran Mitran Music
Website
Louise Dimiceli-Mitran is GeezLouise, and her debut album is Dancing In The Storm. I got
a chuckle with the name, as it is something I say when I refrain from swearing,
which I am not always successful at! The caveat is that it is spelled with no
space, making it unique. Louise's voice serves as another instrument throughout
on this recording.
"Being With You" starts things off. A Finger Picking
acoustic guitar begins, and then bass and drums are added as our star, Louise,
begins to sing. Her voice is pleasant and smooth. This is upbeat pop with a
catchy beat and hook. We are off to a great start with the leadoff track.
"Already Gone" immediately had me thinking of the '70s
Eagles hit (however, there is no comparison here). The music and vocals have a
soft but steady flow. You will notice that Louise has some range and can get relatively
high. I appreciate how she inflected that range when there was a need to
express more emotion with particular words in the tracks—nicely done all the
way around.
"Mexico" carries the warmth of that country; the
sunshine, water, and charm of that is an invitation to let the world melt away
and enjoy all the pleasures available. It is the second longest track, with
music that lays a solid foundation for Louise to impart her lovely vocals and
pleasant lyrics. She sings, “There is no need to shiver under the trees and the
canopy because the water is warm.” Time let go in Mexico, so who can say no? It
has the Jimmy Buffett feeling, with its specific musical elements or lyrics
here resonating all the way through.
"If You Do" starts with an electric guitar lick,
giving it an immediate charge of energy going in a different direction than
previous starts. The bass and drums are solid and hold the rhythm nicely, and
the vocals are sweet, clear, and impactful. These tracks all have a hook that
grabs you, and this one was impressive in that area. Some lovely background
vocals are an added layer that was pleasing. The electric guitar is distinctly
understated, ensuring the vocals remain out front where they need to be. The
guitar was allowed to cut loose towards the end, which I enjoyed.
"Dancing in the Storm," the title track, is always crucial
to the album. A nice acoustic guitar begins, and Louise's vocals are beautiful,
expressing the heartfelt lyrics. The lyrics are something we all can relate
to. If you can be "Dancing In The Storm," you have the vigor,
fortitude, and wherewithal many people do not. It is a song of hope, faith, and
encouragement we all need to hear at different times. The beautiful music has
vocals that are perfectly matched. Hans Christian would make a notable contribution
here on
his cello.
"Hell in the Hallway" starts with fast-paced energy compared
to previous tracks. It has hooks, inspired lyrics, and some great guitar lines.
This track is filled with inspiration for those who may be on a rough road. It
might be hell, but Louise and the band show you there is a way out.
"After All These Years" begins with an acoustic guitar
and well-placed electric notes to accentuate the composition. It is a song of
reassurance and positivity that keeps the flow of good messages being offered
in all this music and lyrics. The singer reminds us that it's like a phoenix
rising at dawn; the person delivering the message tells the other one that he
will always be there for them. Once again, Hans Christian performs on his cello, giving
the track another layer of beauty.
"Five Hundred Ways" starts with the familiar acoustic
guitar. I could hear the fingers squeaking a bit on the strings, which is the
norm, and it means whoever is playing is giving all they have for the song. It
is another uplifting, energetic, soft pop-rock tune. Another friendly reminder
from the singer is that there are many ways to tell someone how you love them.
This is a beautiful message, with uplifting music supporting the vocals. There are
exceptional background vocals on this one towards the end.
"Stand Up" features a nice acoustic guitar, picking
out some notes as the piano joins in for a few moments. Her soft yet practical
touch complements the music, and the music does the same for her. She sings,
"Stand up and be your own best friend. " Now, that is a strong
message to a listening audience. If you have that kind of self-respect, others
will respect you without question.
"Chicago Song" is a reflective song about life, your
roots, and the emotional journey that brought you to where you are. Louise's
emotional depth is palpable as she sings about her parents, stepping into their
shoes as she navigates different parts of the city. It's a poignant exploration
of war, family, and all the complex emotions that come with it. The music
provides a rich, evocative backdrop, making the emotional journey feel all too
real. This is the one track that went straight to my heart more so than any
other.
"Connection" is a strong word; in this case, it is
about your connection to Mother Nature and the person singing. Her lovely voice
feels like a warm summer breeze crossing over your face, bringing a feeling of
well-being. There is excellent piano and guitar, and the rhythm section is spot
on.
"Free" starts with a country-flavored guitar as Louise
maintains her sweet and genuine vocal style. I think many listeners will
appreciate how she sings and that the lyrics are easy to understand. The music
always becomes the ultimate companion, allowing her style to shine nicely. The
guitars are exceptional; you will also hear how long she can hold one of those
high notes!
"You Are a Light" is a spiritual track that fits well
to close out the album. The guitar plays a significant role in this piece, mixing
acoustic notes, rhythmic Finger Picking, and tasteful electric guitar lines.
This combination creates a beneficial, uplifting sound that resonates with the
listener. It's another strong track musically and lyrically, leaving the
audience with hope and light.
Dancing In The Storm is a soft rock pop album full of
inspiration, energy, and light for those who need to find their way out of the
darkness they may be in. The compositions and sound are excellent, and the
musicianship is outstanding. I believe this is a strong debut from a singer
with exceptional talent.
Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-MuzikMan.net
Reviews Founder
January 28, 2025
Tracks:
01. Being With You-3:44
02. Already Gone-3:50
03. Mexico-4:23
04. If You Do-4:02
05. Dancing in the Storm-4:35
06. Hell in the Hallway-4:04
07. After All These Years-3:02
08. Five Hundred Ways-3:46
09. Stand Up-4:19
10. Chicago Song-4:37
11. Connection-3:40
12. Free-3:00
13. You Are a Light-3:16
