With only a small sampling of Sarah Bettens' mellow tunes and introspective lyrics, it's easy to see that the album's title "Scream" might just be an artistic statement.
Perhaps she's referring to the inspiring and righteous lyrics. But then again, she might be proclaiming her own style on the debut solo album.
Originally from Belgium, Bettens enjoyed relative success and popularity in Europe with K's Choice, a band she started with her brother Gert. She began working on solo material in 2004 and spent much of 2005 playing European music festivals before the release of "Scream" in August.
Returning for a second year, this time playing her own material, Bettens spent this fall touring with the Yellow Umbrella Tour. Touring with headliner Duncan Sheik as well as David Poe, Bettens is currently playing shows across America.
According to Bettens, her biggest musical inspiration is the Indigo Girls, and the influence distinctly comes through on "Scream." Several tracks, including "Sister" and "Go," rely heavily upon the acoustic guitar much like the Indigo Girls, as well as the thoughtful and slightly fem-powered lyrics.
Bettens' smooth voice was paired with simple guitar riffs creating much of the mellow beauty throughout the album. "Don't Let Me Drag You Down" included a beautiful string quartet in the mix.
The title track is actually mismatched to the rest of the album. With heavier drums and guitar, it feels out of place as the album progresses.
Overall, Sarah Bettens' "Scream" is a valiant solo effort and should prove more successful than what she produced in Europe with K's Choice.
Photo: Courtesy of Matthew Messina, from the RMBERS' Instagram page
