Sultry singer holds back
The debut of Florida native Hilary McRae showcases a smoky vocalist with an easy command of jazz-inflected R&B, but nothing on this vaguely likable album feels earned or authentic. Recalling vintage Steely Dan without the cranky edge, McRae concocts suave melodies for her mostly downbeat love stories, only to be sabotaged by glossy production and a backing band that’s as slick as a talk-show orchestra. Overbearing horn charts by veteran arranger Charlie Calello echo hits by Chicago and Blood, Sweat and Tears. “Consider Me Gone” features a brassy attack worthy of a Vegas stage, while “Love Song for You” implies that McRae could retool her style to snag melisma-hungry Mariah Carey fans. For now, she seems content appealing to Norah Jones and Madeleine Peyroux devotees who want to hear something slightly rowdier without disrupting Sunday brunch.