Gladshot is a New York City band lead by Debbie Andrews and Mike Blaxill, two musicians who’ve gotten together to prove that literate, finely-wrought pop can spring from the combination of two quite distinct musical minds. The opening tune “Fabulous Friends” is packed with charming harmonies in the chorus. Blaxhill’s roots-rock vocal and understated rhythms on “Early Light” leave room for his well played guitar riffs to stand out. Andrews beautiful vocal takes center stage with “He Was Gone” a slow torchy pop song. It’s Andrews’ stage experience here that gives a few tunes a jazzy finish. Much of the album is best exemplified by the duo singing together on “All I Want Is You” which has a sweet innocence that sounds genuine and is loaded with enthusiasm. The Motown-like “Like The Angels Do” offers a contrast of soft keyboard chords and sharp guitar riffs. The music bounces along like a soft breeze and Burn Up & Shine is one of those albums that make for great summer driving.
“Fabulous Friends” conceived and directed by Matthew K, featuring Joe Butler of the Lovin’ Spoonful as infomercial host