New Brunswick’s darling Jessica Rhaye could be the next Jewel. With
catchy hooks and pop sensibility, her latest album, Good Things,
is an ode to what could be. “Shining Star” reminds listeners to look up
and take in the night sky, though it’s Rhaye who shines on “Rose
Coloured Glasses.” Fans of Nina Gordon’s solo material will swoon for
“Wild Horses.” A slower, piano rendition of “Holding Out,” originally
found on her debut Wild Flowers, alludes to a broken affair and
what it means to leave someone behind. “Everything For Love” highlights
Rhaye’s eternal romantic, while closing track “Where’s An Angel,” is
almost holy in its beauty. Rhaye plays September 2 at The Carleton.
This article appears in Aug 27 – Sep 2, 2009.