Sometimes in life things don’t go they way they’re planned. I’m the true professional when it comes to that aspect of life and living. In a perfect world (mine) every review I would write would be scrutinized by the general media and record executives to find the hot new bands and posers. I would be capable of making and breaking careers, sounds like I need to get a life, eh?
Well Natalie Wattre' sings like she’s lived a life. Betrayal, torment and alienation are no strangers to this talented woman. The mood isn’t so dire as to inflict a suicide response while listening to her music. Her voice keeps your spirit securely afloat above the mire of life. Now your thinking this is just another torch carrying folk singer. Wrong! There are moments of inspiration and hope but enough to feel the full range of emotions, without feeling polly anna. Her vocal style can best be described as a mature Janis Joplin.
In the press release for the band it gives three suggested songs. Let me tell you that the suggested songs are way off. The whole disc is solid! This is one of those rare finds which every song is tight, meaningful and very listen able all the time. The feel is introspective but very open in it’s open in it’s own right. Opening with the track "Lost", the guitars and strings give a vast yet closed in feeling. A dramatic song that could be a sure hit on the radio, nationwide. "Coming Undone" is a strong, passionate song of chasing foolish infatuation. It really exposes the feeling of embarrassment and realization that everyone travels through. As the title track "Break" opens with the bass and abruptly muted chords, desperation creeps in from the corners and threatens to infest your soul. The title "Nothing" deals with leaving the way you came. "Unconditional Love" is a sweet song that reminds me of my children and the way they see me. If you’re a parent, you’ll really appreciate this song. I could go on and on about every song on this disc but just go down to your nearest hip record store and demand this disc. When they tell you they’ve never heard of her, get online and order it at www.artiststand.com and pick this disc of the year up right away. - RJ Streets
Natalie Wattré: Press
Natalie Wattré has got to be one of the most interesting and amazing vocalists that I've heard. Her raspy voice just pours on the passion and soul. Her grit makes her already great music even more memorable and mind-numbing. I sat for hours listening to the shear emotion and power that this music so easily presents. Every word is delivered in a way that makes you wish the music would never stop. The songwriting is just as impressive on the album. Real lyrics that portray true emotion and feeling. I can't think of a better album that tears at the heart than this one. I can't think of a better voice to sing it either. The music is easily related and easy to feel. That's just the way music should be.
The Rundown: Sound Quality 5/5 stars, Production Quality 5/5 stars, Musicicianship 4/5 stars, Originality 4/5 stars, Over All 5/5 stars
Michael Allison - TheGlobalMuse.com
Rating: Must Have (94 out of 100)
Once in a great while, an indie LP comes along and leaves us astonished at it's musical beauty and originality, much like The Replacements did with "let It Be." Natalie Wattré Band's "Break" is such a masterpiece. Natalie has developed a knack for getting to the core of her personal relationships and emotions, and letting them inspire her lyrics. The result is a look at love from a deeply passionate, yet darkly honset perspective. Listeners are instantly connected with these feelings, and amazed at how a few words can conjure up such intimate memories from their own lives. Vocals music and lyrics are all first-rate and every song is timeless
Sven - NeoHippy.net