Gretchen Witt grew up in Ohio before moving at age 18 to New York, where she studied classical piano and voice for years before picking up the guitar. Vocally, she's been compared to singers from Norah Jones to Jewel. Spotlighted in the documentary Idolette, her music has played on various radio stations in the U.S., with frequent live shows in New York City at venues such as the Knitting Factory and the Cutting Room.

I came across Gretchen whilst perusing the MySpace website, which is ridiculously inspiring for finding new music. Previous reviews have said her voice is "angelic and powerful" and "acoustic rock magic."

The opening track, "So Called Bliss," is an intimate little number as I listened loudly on my big chrome headphones. Gretchen's voice reminds me of Tracy Chapman and has the same unique quality. "Criminal" sounds different straightaway, has more of a soft-rock approach as opposed to acoustic/folk. There's an emotional strength in Gretchen's lyrics and she sings from the heart; this is immediately clear upon listening.

This is where I become surprised by Gretchen's musical abilities, for the third track "Say So" is reminiscent of a Joni Mitchell ballad. I would choose this as my favourite song on the EP; the subtle instrumental build-up is powerful and I like the pace of it in its entirety. Though I'd like to hear louder harmonies behind it, the guitar solo at the end is a great touch. "Smiling for Me" has some lush instrumentals in the way of the harpsichord and piano -- this is quite a big song, and I almost wanted the voice and lyrics to be as big and match the boldness and size of the instruments. The last track, "Over & Done," is well chosen as the finishing song. With its jazz-lounge feel I imagine this is best performed in the basement of a blues club with cigarette smoke swimming in the audience's eyeline. However, it's my least favourite on the demo.

Gretchen Witt has an impressive range in musical styles, which I believe will keep her interesting, and ahead of her game. She has the ability to compose strong, dramatic ballads as well as intricate acoustic pieces. For that rarity, Witt is worth watching.

by Jo Overfield
Rambles.NET
11 February 2006

[ visit the artist's website ]