Review: David & Devine (Debut EP)

Candace Devine is a powerful vocalist who has worked with such artists as Christina Aguilera and Stephen Van Zandt (how’s that for diversity?). Dave Yaden is an award winning composer and pianist who has written for and performed with acts like John Mayer and Lady Antebellum. Together, they are David and Devine, soul pop duet that really packs a mean punch.

The debut EP from this dynamic duo is truly a rich and rewarding compilation of well written songs. They have a unique pop sensibility that indulges in soulful vocals, harmonies and instrumentation reminiscent of 70s soul with a touch of modernity to keep it fresh.

The first cut, Til The Sun Comes Up, showcases a Stevie Wonder vibe with a positive and energetic message of love. It’s a truly feel good love ballad that is both well written and masterfully delivered.

Since We Been Together is another inspired song about devotion. It has a flurry of horns and a funky back beat. I’d be remiss not to mention the vague hint of early 80’s Prince.

Leave The Light On. This song is a mellow piano and vocal melody with a sadness that reflects regret and resolve. It picks up with a pleasant string section and simple beat. I can easily imagine this song being rendered in a variety of styles which to me is a hallmark of a well written song.

More Is Better. Is a very Paul McCartney-esque pop song that is a critique on the American way of consumerism yet is more reflective of living with the hustle and bustle of modern life in a very light hearted way without coming across as pretentious; it just is a call to a simple life. It is very piano heavy and has a strong Ben Folds vibe to it.

The last ditty is Save Me From Yourself. This is the breakup song of the EP. And it is appropriately longing in its call to walk away from a bad situation. Anyone who has broken up with someone they love because the situation is intolerable will directly relate to this song. It is emotionally complex and builds to a rewarding close and it's a perfect end cap for a well written combination of songs

This is one of those albums that tells a story. From start to finish, it follows the lives of two lovers as they fall in love, deal with trials, and eventually go their separate ways. Although it is a collection of love songs, it has a lot of energy and combines retro sounds in a way that is rewarding to the ear as well as the heart. Unlike many love songs, this collection has depth and explores the complexity of emotions involved with having a difficult relationship and manages to stay upbeat and poignant throughout.

This is a solid 5 star compilation that says everything it needs to say. I’d almost dock half of a point for it being too short!