Summerwind, Windsor, CT
June 23, 2013
by Eric Sutter
The Summerwind Performing Arts Center hosted two
up-and-coming female country music artists backed by Connecticut's own Monthei
Brothers. The twin brothers have played country music in CT since the 70's.
Their five-piece band began the night with an Eagles' classic "Take It
Easy." On this beautiful cool moonlit night, the boys played bluegrass and
the rock hit "Memphis" by Chuck Berry. They proved what 40 years of
experience is worth. John Monthei's flashy fiddle style colored "Orange
Blossom Special."
The 20 year old Marla Morris from Bethany, CT rocked her
country sound from the opener title cut of her CD, "Ready For The
Rain," to the closer, "Take Me Home." She shared songs of lost
love, friendship and growth. Morris' songs "Last Dance" and "Let
You Go" were interspersed with rock hits "Long Train Runnin'"
and "Walking In Memphis." Listen for more from this talented young
singer.
Nicole Freshette, from Madison, is another young powerhouse
country singer who showcased her amazing dual natured voice that rocked and
soothed. Her charismatic presence propelled new songs from her latest CD
"Blonde Ambition." "Bird On A Wire" had a Miranda Lambert
influence. In fact, later in the set she performed Lambert's "Mama's
Broken Heart." Freshette's confident vocals belted out "He Wants
Me" with gusto. The Phil Vassar penned pop-hook hit "Yeah
Right," from Freshette's debut CD, featured a captivating chorus and
smooth pedal steel guitar solo by John Monthei. The country ballad "Old
Dirt Road" gave the singer the opportunity to show off her lovely voice in
a tender song, with acoustic guitar as backdrop.
"Heartbreak Overdrive" added riveting rockin'
country with hot electric guitar leads of the wild abandonment variety.
Freshette shifted to a bluesy singing style for a soulful take of Tracey
Chapman's "Give Me One Reason." She closed with the bristly Dixie
Chicks' country-rocker "Let Er' Rip." This girl is going places... as
is Summerwind. The venue features a fine array of talent this summer.
