Acoustically Stripped Down

Stacy Sharp

Reviewed by Sara E. Walker

Stacy Sharp, a native of Oklahoma, moved to Nashville just a few years ago and has released her first album called Acoustically Stripped Down, which hit earlier this year.   Hence the album’s title, Acoustically Stripped Down is a bare bones representation of folk rock.  Armed with only her acoustic guitar, her vocals, and a little help with harmonies, she bares it all.

The 10-song album takes you through a journey of love and life.  She gives you insight to her life and her own passions.  Stacy, with the exception of “I Fell Into You” and “Pretend,” wrote all the album’s songs.  “I Fell Into You” and “Pretend” were both co-written with Jamie Radcliff.

Stacy’s vocals are powerful and big, more so than what might come to mind when thinking of a female folk rock singer.  She leaves the characteristically soft vocal style behind and cuts through the lyrical melodies.  On track 9, Sleep Tight, Stacy shows she is a versatile vocalist by letting her power step aside to touch some of the upper range.  Although never getting falsetto, she still shows she can be soft.

She strums her guitar the same way she sings, with power and feeling. “Crush” which is track 2 on the album is one to watch.  Musically and lyrically it hits the ears with a familiar tone, with an almost commercial appeal if you will.  After listening through this song a few times with its hook lines and melodies I was singing along.  But that’s what it's all about, right?

The album is a good selection for a calm day and one that I recommend.  As of right now the album can only be purchased from her website www.myspace.com/stacysharp.  Stop by her site, listen to a few songs, and see where she’s playing next. 

Sara E. Walker

GirlAuDio@NashvilleRock.net