Don't Wait by Adie

"...has a simplicity that is refreshing, with enough variety within her folk/rock genre to keep you eager for the next track."

After The Benjamin Gate called it quits in 2003, South African native and lead singer Adrienne Camp opened a clothing store in Indiana and secretly dreamed of recording a cd on her own. Then out of the blue, husband and singer Jeremy Camp suggested, “Honey, I think it would really cool if you did a solo album.” Adie says, “I was thrilled, because I was thinking the same thing. It’s been scary stepping out on my own without the band guys. The Benjamin Gate was all about pushing boundaries, no holding back. This cd fits me so much better.”

Jeremy Camp’s fingerprints are all over this project, helping with backup vocals in “Broken” and co-writing many of the other songs with Adie. Although a lot more mellow than the albums she did with The Benjamin Gate, Adrienne’s strong rock vocals are still there. Her clear voice nails each note and is backed by a crisp, sometimes acoustic sound that’s rich with texture---a long journey from the aggressive rock sound of her former band.

You’d never guess this was Adie’s first solo cd either musically or lyrically, as each cut seems to flow easily to the next. My favorite has to be “When It’s Over”, a touching number about how much she longs to see Jesus one day. The piano opening gives way to an electric-guitar-backed-chorus with her own harmonies, reminding me a little bit of Joy Williams minus the pop element. “Your Way” deals with trusting God and going His way and not our own. It’s a simple blend of electric and acoustic guitar, well suited for the lower range of her voice. There’s a pure hymn-like tune, “What Have I Done”, where Adie’s voice becomes airy and angelic (Amy Grant’s “Breath of Heaven” comes to mind.) The final touch is her catchy, updated version of The Byrd’s “Turn, Turn, Turn”.

Don’t Wait has a simplicity that is refreshing, with enough variety within her folk/rock genre to keep you eager for the next track, although Benjamin Gate fans might be slightly disappointed with it’s lack of edginess. Several cuts are radio friendly, and I can already see them soaring to the top of the charts. Go Adie! I have a feeling you won’t have much time anymore for that boutique of yours.