Dionne | Living in the Music (EP)

Dionne | Living in the Music (EP) By Peggy Oliver

I must give kudos to 111 East Music for doing their homework in finding vocal jewels like Dionne, a singer/songwriter who paints plenty of vivid pictures with her music. The Texas born, now Washington, DC based neo-soul/jazz stylist simply loves to inspire those who want to live life to the fullest. Every time she blazes the stage, one seems to gravitate towards her sincere, energetic personality who takes the inspirations of India.Arie and Anita Baker right along with her. A graduate of the Arts Magnet School in Dallas who boosts Erykah Badu and Kirk Whalum as their alumni, Dionne (who used to perform under Deedee Kirby) has been around several job blocks before blossoming into a full time musical artist. From the traditional office job to teaching students in pushing for their highest potential in life, the launching point for Dionne’s ultimate destiny was in 1997. Her demo took half a year to realize; fighting self-doubts from all the dues she paid as a background singer and locking in a decision regarding her future. Dionne’s final dream was released in summer of 2010 with the independent disc – Unrealistic – which is now repackaged but with the same material on Living in the Music.

Despite several different producers, each and every track shines with Dionne’s dynamic voice powering through the neo-soulful vibe. “Ooh” with an enthralling hook, chills out with hypnotizing beats, hand claps and strings in a song about experiencing joy to the fullest. “Move” speaks loudly in Dionne’s personal life: “I’m inspired to go higher for the dreams that inspire me.” This first single from Living in the Music not only induces the head nods, but is a perfect choice for rhythmic R&B and adult contemporary radio. The same could apply for “Lucky” with its shivering synth fills and electric piano glistens. A song that deviates a bit from the positive, “Allergies,” is a jazzy soul ode geared for Mr. Misery regarding frustrations in a cool but firm demeanor: “Your insecurity made my eyes swell.” Where the rest of the tracks are primarily producer driven, “Sure” maintains the sweet grooves, only with a more organic flow. Backing Dionne are Keith Hammond on guitar and bass guitar, Elliot Jefferson on keys and Lamonte Silver on drums and percussion.

Five tracks may not be enough to properly judge Dionne’s full potential. For now, Living in the Music is a soulfully delicious introduction for Dionne; one of 111 East Music’s growing list of neo-soul/jazz artists to keep those ears perked
for.

Peggy Oliver
The Urban Music Scene