BELLA SUN: No Crystal Stair

Bella Sun

No Crystal Stair

© 2004 Bella Sun (606041170223)

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A great mix of folk, Memphis soul, and Beer joint Rock.

notes

At first glance, people automatically think reggae music, with Mike and Vals long beautiful dreadlocks, but as they begin to play you realize they are no reggae band. The fusion of classic funk and soulful folk unite to create the soothing sounds of Bella Sun. Since March of 2000, the husband-wife duo has been filling coffee shops and bars with thought provoking lyrics and funky acoustic guitar licks and with the addition of their full band, they have created a sound that has textures of many many types of music.

Valerie's voice has been compared to Billie Holiday, Janis Joplin, Stevie Nicks and Mavis Staples. Her influences range from jazz legends like Nina Somon to recent folk artist like Tracey Chapman. Her lyrics powerfully embrace spirituality and inspire social consciousness. Michael's influences range from old school artist like Woody Guthrie, Fela Kuti, and Curtis Mayfield to new acts like Counting Crows, Elliot Smith and Robert Randolph.

Bella Sun lives in Soulsville U.S.A., Memphis TN where they have been changing the music scene for the past 4 years. With the release of No Crystal Stair they have melted together a sweet sound that includes bass, drums and, cello, flute, guitar, and percusion. They are currently in the full swing of promoting their album and gigging.

reviews

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  • Flavorful and original !
    author: Laura T Lynch of Kweevak.com

    Bella Sun's sound is a mix of folk, funk, rock and soul. Valerie pens provocative lyrics that address social and spiritual themes. Both Michael and Valerie cite a diversity of interests and influences that subtly find their way into the Bella Sun mix. 'Darkness' has a funky rhythm layered over a steady guitar groove as Valerie aptly sings lyrics of dark imagery. 'Passing' features a rich, animated acoustic guitar flowing over subtle percussion and Valerie melodically singing intriguing words. 'People' moves along on a catchy, up-tempo beat and guitars as Valerie's varied vocals meld into the mix. Bella Sun's music is a diverse, earthy blend of musical styles that is flavorful and original!

  • A totally unique sound
    author: HEATHER YORK

    I was amazed by the quality of this cd, both the vocals AND the music. I play #6 over and over again. Their sound is so unique. I heard them on a morning tv show and bought the cd that same morning.

  • Good stuff
    author: Collected Sounds

    Gosh I don't even know how to describe this music. Is it rock? Is it funk? Jazz? Blues? Pop? I dunno. I guess it's a little of each. Which is good. The songwriting is somewhere in the classic-rock classic folk vibe. Nice melodies, catchy and timeless. This is a fine recording from a talented duo.

  • A poetic materpiece with an unforgettable sound
    author: J. M. Simpson

    This album was very dynamic. It has a little bit of funk with a whole lot of folk & soul. I especially enjoyed the heartfelt ballads. This artist definitely knows how to tap into human emotion. The lyrics were breathtaking and insightful. This album is a must have.

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