Streetlamp Musician

I was first surprised when I heard Natalie Gelman’s wonderful voice because, just from looking at her picture on the front of her new EP, I assumed she was going to be a pop singer (she looks rather young). After pursuing the internet to find out how old Gelman really is, and not finding anything, I just went back to enjoying every single song off of her latest release, “Streetlamp Musician” a nod to her start as a street performer.

Gelman’s voice is powerful, well honed, and has a sophisticated range that makes her every word a pleasure to the ears. The styles she incorporates into her vocal performances range from country to jazz and everything in between. Citing inspirations like Jewel, Fiona Apple, Sheryl Crow, Joni Mitchell, Patty Griffin, U2, John Mayer, Bruce Springsteen, Tracy Chapman, Colbie Caillat, Janis Joplin, Sara Bareilles, Sarah McLaughlin, it’s easy to follow the roller coaster ride of ranges and styles that Gelman uses on the album.

Lyrically Gelman is a poet, narrating life experiences, hitting on some social issues, but basically reflecting the world through observation and play. My personally favorite was the sultry “The Lion” in which Gelman warns a lover “You Shouldn’t give kisses where you can’t give love/You’ve woken up the lion and she hasn’t had enough”. Another stand out track is Long Stemmed Roses, not because the rest of the album lacks anything, but because this song is so powerfully delivered in a stand on it’s own way, but also with a pinch of familiarity to me that makes it sentimental somehow.

If you’ve never heard of Natalie Gelman before, now’s your chance to jump on the bandwagon. The singer/songwriter is absolutely fantastic, has a powerful voice and a good direction for music, and I would put money down that she’s here to stay. Be sure to get your hands on this EP. Enjoy.