Audio Review: Questions Left Unanswered by Sounds Of A&R

Questions Left Unanswered (2021)
Soaring Records
April May Webb, Vocals
Randall Haywood, Trumpet/Flugelhorn
Jacob Webb, Bass
Nathan Webb, Drums
Charlie Sigler, Guitar
James Austin, Pianist
Riza Printup, Harp

As difficult as 2020 was for the world, 2021 is looking to be more hopeful; and Questions Left Unanswered by Sounds of A&R is a perfect introduction to a new hope in moving forward from a whirlwind of a year. Starting off with an introduction in “Thus The Beginning” the listener learns that Sounds of A&R (S.O.A.R.) share a partnership beyond the bandstand. Each track leaves a mark with mighty lyrics in the originals complimented by tasty grooves in the standards. For instance, S.O.A.R.’s rendition of “Jolene” adds a pretty hip beat to the classic tune that could be more catching than the original version.

Throughout the album, both April Webb and Randall Haywood (the “A&R” to Sounds of A&R) feed off of each other’s lines with smooth melodic riffs and popping vocal notes. Haywood’s solos are polished and effortless which adds to the confident clarity in Webb’s voice. As the album contains a healthy balance of covers and originals, the whole package comes through with many gleeful sounds of a duo that enjoys making the music together.

As good-natured as the album is, it is the track “The Skin I’m In” that can resonate the most with the listener. With an introduction from harpist Riza Printup and bassist Jacob Webb, this track digs deep with its powerful lyrics. It is in the phrase “You don’t see the soul within, you just see the skin I’m in” where the hopeful major quickly reverts to a despairing minor, causing a sense of reflection for much-needed change.

Moving to the album’s title track, “Questions Left Unanswered” seems to be the answer to the previous reality-driven track. With the rhythm section playing a heartbeat pulse, the vocals float along to give strength and meaning behind all of the deeper questions recited throughout the tune.

With alternate takes and reprises closing out this dynamic album, the penultimate track “As The Deer” showcases S.O.A.R.’s worshipful and soulful side that would be a delight to hear in the pews. Pianist James Austin adds graceful touch in his comping and solos, while Haywood’s muted trumpet sings through the instrument. It is a perfect ending to an album that offers so many different styles and showcases all that Sounds of A&R can do with vocals and trumpet. The flavorful variety in their music will give meaningful sounds for any listener to enjoy, relax, think, and speak about for the year 2021.

Tracklist:
Thus The Beginning
Social Call
Jolene
They Keep Saying No
Killing Me Softly
Dark Brown Eyes
Moments When I Was A Kid
The Skin I’m In (Prelude)
The Skin I’m In
Questions Left Unanswered
I’m Old Fashioned
Killing Me Softly (Reprise)
As The Deer
Questions Left Unanswered (Reprise)

Click here to purchase Questions Left Unanswered (Direct).

Click here to learn more about Sounds of A&R.