Blue Moon

The guy's name would make him a shoo-in for gospel success, but he's mainstream pop/country all the way, with rich, sultry vocal tones (with just a hint of twang when he sings of the lonesome "Blue Moon"), some of country's top backing musicians and Wilbur C. Rimes (LeAnn's dad) producing. Perhaps it was never announced, but he was probably the winner of the Chris Isaak sound-alike contest. His voice goes into a high vibrato at the start of the title track's chorus, much like Isaak does on "Wicked Game." On the mid-tempo, Spanish-flavored "Cold Kisses," he goes into the low register during the verses, a perfect match for Isaak's dreamy sensuality. "Just a Kiss" is like Isaak doing Roy Orbison, mixing the highs and the lows. These comparisons are not negative criticisms, they're sideways compliments -- Holy has a powerful voice, it's simply not the most distinctive. When he's finding middle range, he's up there with the best of country rockers. "The Hunger" is an emotional powerhouse, while "Tear One" is steel guitar country folk lamenting nonpareil. His two attempts at co-writing ("Just a Kiss," "Someone's Out to Get Me") are among the better tunes, pointing perhaps to a deeper artistry than most country crooners who always need to look for outside material. By definition, "holy" means "set apart." Steve Holy only hints at finding an original voice on occasion, but what he does present is a likeable, colorful listening experience. ~ Jonathan Widran