She may have just missed winning American Idol in 2007 (she finished third), but powerhouse vocalist Melinda Doolittle seems destined for greater triumphs if her remarkable debut, Coming Back To You, is anything to go by.
Steeped in retro-soul, old-school funk, doo-wop, blues, and jazz, the 13-track CD shows off Doolittle’s impressive emotional and vocal range as she captures the power of love (“Wonder Why”), tenderness (“I’ll Never Stop Loving You”), optimism (“We Will Find A Way”), resilience (Dust My Broom), passion (It’s Your Love, The Best Of Everything), perseverance (“I Will Be”), and longing (“If I’m Not In Love”) through music. The scintillating title track, the bouncy “Wonderful” and the throwback grooves of “Walkin’ Blues” are among other highlights.
A former background singer for gospel veteran CeCe Winans, 31-yea-old Doolittle’s singing has a depth not commonly found in contemporary music; something you have to admire and respect. Her gorgeous sound harks back to the golden age of Motown and Stax/Volt soul, with tunes driven by rich arrangements, driving rhythms, horns, organ, and light strings (several of the old school-flavored mid-tempo ballads are fine examples). Additionally, the CD offers touches of contemporary R&B and smooth jazz-pop, but regardless of the style, the focus is Doolittle's voice, which wails, growls, and croons in a way that will leave few unhappy listeners.
At the same time, while the CD is an easy listen, it has a substantial amount of emotional depth to hold up over time. With this release, Doolittle proves that her vocal prowess competes with any other female pop, R&B, or gospel artist out there right now. A jazz album to show just how far her vocal talents can stretch would be great for a sophomore release.
Coming Back To You impresses greatly as the singer’s knack for colorful key changes and phrasing are impeccable. More important, she has conviction. Packed with songs that ponder the transformative power of love, the album is a strong first effort from a promising talent that will satisfy listeners.
DOWNLOAD: “It’s Your Love”, “Wonderful”, “Walkin’ Blues” and “Coming Back To You”.
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