Gina Sicilia

Heard The Lie

Blue Elan Records

Philadelphia’s Gina Sicilia released her first recording “Allow Me To Confess” in 2007. That well received debut, resulted in her receiving a Blues Music Award nomination as “Best New Artist” and begin touring. Today she tours all over the world playing over a 150 shows a year. Her last album “Tug of War” was co-produced by Glenn Barratt and the Grammy nominated Dave Darling who also produces her label mate Janiva Magness. That album was a sort of comeback as it was her first full length recording on her new label and its release coincided with her relocation to Nashville.

Sicilia states “I’ve learned that hard work and experience are what it takes to grow and become a better artist, and I see myself as always evolving, reaching for a kind of perfection within the music I love to make”. She adds “Nashville is an inspiring place to be in general.” “Heard The Lie” is Sicilia’s eighth studio album, and once again it is produced by Darling. Sicilia is backed by Josh Smith, guitar; Doug Livingston, dobro; Arlan Oscar, keyboards; Davey Faragher and Carl Sealove, bass; and Herman Matthews, drums. Numerous background vocalists add to the production.

“All the songs came together rather quickly, I was feeling good writing”. Sicilia continues “I’ve never really recorded albums that are straight blues because I’ve always felt the urge to write and record my many musical influences. But I have always tried to write blues influenced songs”. Due to her relocating to Nashville “Heard The Lie” also has a strong Americana influence.

Highlights include the fabulous title track, written by Sicilia, and sporting the lyric “I’m alone again…and I heard the lie, heard it come right outta my mouth, when I told you that I loved you”.  Her husky vocal combines with the twang of guitars.

“How Many Times”, written by Darling, continues the breakup of the relationship with “why would I stay, when we always fight this way?” Sicilia’s smoky delivery is augmented by the background singers.

Sicilia is more positive and still searching for love on “Brighter Day”, co-written with Magness, who shares the vocal; and on the more lighthearted “Sugar”.

“Darling” is a tribute to the girl groups of the 1960’s with some interesting percussion, while “Light Me Up” is a dance tune. Selected covers include Janey Street’s “Angel’s Watching”, and “Bad Company’s “Ready For Love” featuring Oscar on both organ and piano.

Siciilia has apparently found a new home in Nashville and on the Blue Elan Records imprint. This is another remarkable recording from the always improving Sicilia.

Richard Ludmerer

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