Nicole Wray has been making music beside
Leon Michels and his crew dating back to six songs she co-wrote for
Lee Fields' 2012 album Faithful Man. In addition to the self-titled album by
Wray and
Terri Walker's short-lived Lady, and
Wray's first
Lady Wray LP,
Queen Alone, she has been part of
Michels' productions for
Charles Bradley and
El Michels Affair, and also co-wrote and fronted an effervescent '83-ish boogie throwback under the punning group alias Synthia.
Wray's lengthy route to
Piece of Me began in 2019, the year of Synthia's appearance, with the release of the chin-up, tear-stained title song, backed by another ballad, the alluring "Come On In." When
Piece of Me was released -- in January 2022 -- two-thirds of it had been released physically on 7" and/or digitally, making its arrival somewhat anti-climactic, but it ultimately adds up to a satisfying
Queen Alone follow-up that's somehow both a little darker and more welcoming. This is all original material that doesn't stray all that far from
Queen Alone, coming across like muscular, expertly detailed revamps of deep Curtom, Invictus, and Atlantic sides from the late '60s and early '70s. (On that note, it should be said that "Games People Play" is not a
Spinners cover, if similar in its resignation.)
Wray again balances the ups and downs -- the most romantic scenes are not picture perfect, while the turbulent moments are tempered by a sense of optimism. The set peaks sweetly on "Through It All," made unforgettable for its chorus --
Wray's voice is pitched up to a coo -- and seduces most potently with the slow-twisting "Joy & Pain." The previously unheard cuts aren't throw-ins. "I Do," a somewhat regal and dubwise opener, sets the album's poised tone with
Wray declaring that "nothing can trouble these waters." "Where Were You" stings and seethes, though she remains composed despite her distress. The remaining two contain the album's featured appearances, with
Wray's father imparting wisdom on the resolute "Beauty in the Fire" and her daughter speaking on the eponymous acoustic lullaby "Melody." ~ Andy Kellman