I'm not keen on the "pleeeeeease pick me" theme of too many female singers and /or songwriters. Setting aside my admitted leanings towards strong, confident lyrics (or at least lyrics that strive for that ideal or recognize that the whiny I'm-nobody-if-nobody-loves-me slant is a bit tired) Senona's Lost in Translation does show promise. Bushels of it. There's an interesting retro/futuristic feel to this: Think back to early Madonna. Now think ahead to what Britney, Hillary or Lindsey might sound like in a few years' time, if they don't succumb to jaw dislocating gum chewing (sugarless, of course), nicotine as a food group "nutrition or underwear-less induced pneumonia.
Under the retro-ish banner is "Where Are You?", reminiscent of the soundtracks to Beach Party Bingo/Gidget Goes GaGa era. There's even that bubble gummy signpost of stretching one syllable words into two, as in "Day-ay, Say-ay". All that's missing is the ponytailed boppers, hoola hoops and bobby socks. Nothing blatantly wrong or off-putting about that in and of itself, but I suspect its nostalgic boppy appeal may start to wane the way that the taste of saccharine wanes when what you're truly jonesing for is real sugar.
But hang loose Moondoggie, You'll be rewarded with cuts like "Only Blame Me" and "Not A Day Goes By". "Only Blame Me" in particular allows singer Chrys Senon to expose her vulnerability. Followed by Not A Day Goes By", recorded live in a coffee shop, provides a glimpse into the musicians' likeable in-person appeal. Both these cuts showcase Senona's more mature, more irresistibly engaging side and allow their textured vocals and superior musicianship some well deserved time in the spotlight. Perhaps those qualities are indeed evident throughout the CD, and simply requires more of the listener: a good set of headphones, an open mind, a willing spirit and a genuine determination to not overthink or undervalue Senona's gift of music. Maybe that message was simply Lost in Translation. Which is no excuse to not give this young band a fair listen.
