There are two ways to approach this album: free your mind by
absorption into the lyrical content or just let this soothing piece of melodic
roots music drift around your senses. There is no rule about seeking either or
both approaches. It is entirely dependent on the mood of the listener. However ignore
the record at your peril as you will be missing out on a singer-songwriter at the
top of their game. FRANKIE AND THE NO-GO ROAD is Rita Hosking’s sixth studio
release since embarking out on a professional recording career and will
certainly go down as one of the most mind inspiring and thoughtful records of
2015.
As an artist Rita embodies all that is alluring about the
country folk tradition. Modern labels such as Americana and roots also play
their part in defining her music, but all you really need to explain her style
is marry the three holy strands of sparkling writing, ear pleasing melodies and
a pure musical sound. Lyrically the album can be whatever you want it to be.
Rita has taken a thematic and conceptual approach leaving interpretation open
to both literal and personal angles. The subject can be Frankie, Rita or you,
dependent on an individual frame of mind. There is an undeniably abstract line
of interpretation here, but you are dealing with the works of a creative
artisan who hardly ponders to popular whims.
If all this introspective analysis is getting too much,
taking all twelve tracks at face musical value is a pleasurable experience.
Several of the songs could quite easily be lifted as radio friendly plays on
specialist music shows. Rita wraps her beautiful vocals around each one with
the authentic instrumental accompaniment, ranging from banjo to harmonica, helping
create a satisfying vibe from start to finish. Perhaps of most appeal is Rita’s
knack of pouring her thoughts into a song structure perfectly formed to catch
the attention of the curious ear upon first listen.
For the record, Rita Hosking is a widely acclaimed
singer-songwriter from California who has courted praise from astute industry
bodies and individuals. A refined version of Mary Gauthier comes to mind. Rita
works in tandem with husband and musical partner Sean Feder, the provider of Dobro,
banjo, percussion and harmonies. They regularly tour the UK and hopefully
greater recognition of the new record will lead to these being rolled out on
a wider scale.
Individual track analysis is superfluous in this review as
they all possess first among high quality equals status. On the other hand, it
is important to point out the thematic concept. The twelve tracks tell a
literal story of a journey full of discovery, pondering, wisdom, challenges,
reflection and ultimate realisation. Each track on the lyric sheet contains an
interpretative strapline drawing in the listener/reader to a starting point.
From then on, an open mind will take the songs in a multitude of directions.
Frankly this is purely a personal analysis, but there is certainly no harm in
stretching the brain occasionally.
Rich in sound, strong on melody and brimming with
imaginative writing is the perfect sign off for FRANKIE AND THE NO-GO ROAD by
Rita Hosking. Make sure you check out this articulate artist adept at adding twang
to the creative musings of her inner soul. Maybe that is something we all need in
our lives sometimes.
