Donna Missal’s This Time is the best debut album of the current generation of artists. I know that is a massive claim, but this girl is something special and her debut album is impactful. It is my opinion that if she gets the exposure she deserves that this album will surpass Adele’s 21. Donna Missal has major chops and her artistry is pure and raw. She has the triple threat of great instrumentals, vocals and lyrics. Her songs are compelling and it only takes a few seconds to draw you in.
Donna Missal has a truly unique sound with strong jazz, blues, and R&B vibes coupled with one of the rawest female rock vocals I have heard. The combination is sultry as fuck. She can belt raw rock vocals – listen to “Keep Lying” (especially the Live from Capitol Studio recording). Rock is not all she can do she also produces pure tones and has serious vocal gymnastic skills. She has amazing runs and brings in jazz and blues vocals over-top of more modern instrumental melodies. One of my favorite moments is when she channels a Bond girl during her sign off track, “Don’t Say Goodnight”.
Her lyrics mirror her sound as she blends poetic phrases with coarse guttural lines. This juxtaposition further highlights her message. Her lyrics are relatable and affective, they draw you in. Many times, due to the popularity of streaming services, albums feel like a collection of singles. Donna Missal does not. Her album flows culminating in a musical experience that you will want to listen to over and over again. It hearkens back to the day when people would gather around the record player just to listen. No need for any distractions, just kick back and listen, I promise she is more than enough to keep you entertained. That is how good she is.
Pick up the debut album, This Time, by Donna Missal on iTunes now and check out the live recording of “Keep Lying – (Live at Capitol Studios)” on YouTube below!
