Artist:     Charlie Faye & The Fayettes

Album:     Charlie Faye & The Fayettes

Label:     Self-released

Release Date:     06/10/2016

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As a singer/songwriter, Charlie Faye has pursued a modest but admirable career track, one of which has won her respect and the admiration of a legion of followers who have noted her ample songcraft and assured delivery. However, with this eponymous debut by Faye and her new girl group the Fayettes (consisting of fellow standbys Bettysoo and Akina Adderley), she digresses with a wink and a nod towards a sound and style that would likely make Phil Spector beam from behind his jailhouse bars.

Sounding much like Ronnie Spector and the Ronnettes re-imagined with an all-star backing band (former Attractions drummer Pete Thomas, guitarists Lyle Workman, Tony Gilkyson, pop pundit Roger Manning etc.), the trio revisit the pop pastiche of the late ‘50s and early ‘60s with a series of giddy, glowing self-penned tunes of a lighthearted nature. The opening track “Green Light” may be the most provocative of all; a sunny serenade that cajoles a would-be lover into taking the first step. Less racy, but equally effusive, “LovingNames,” “It’s All Happening,” “One More Chance” and they show an innate giddiness that sets the set aglow. Kitschy but catchy and flush with exuberance and appeal, Charlie Faye & The Fayettes may be on to something here—it is possible to have a gimmick, but not come across as overtly contrived. In this case, talent tells all.

– Lee Zimmerman