Kevon Carter - Hey Alice (song review) |self-released, single, 2018| 
So far, many artists have paid their tribute to the imaginary Alice of Lewis Carroll's famous story and her dream-like trip into the unknown followed by discoveries have been interpreted differently each time.
'Hey Alice' by Kevon Carter is an easy-listening, rhythmic song where the accent is put on building a memorable melody. The composition follows classic rules. The arrangements repeat and sound flexible so that the song could easily exist in its original (pop) space, but could also have a more guitar or drums driven version (which matters in case of using the song in other media).
The song speaks of a romantic relationship – the titular Alice is being encouraged to come into physical contact with the one who wishes to please her: (…) I'll show you magic, working wonders with the palm of my hands / Won't you please come and play with me (…) This invites a comparison between Alice's icy innocence (expressed by the piano/electronics) and the man's experience - he's trying to build trust by gently knocking on her personal igloo door (represented by a non-invasive beat in the composition). The details of their encounter are what listeners may want to work out on their own.
The mood here feels fragile, almost on the verge on breaking like a layer of thin ice at times, yet it's solidly grasped by the composition. The softness results from instrumental arrangements (written mostly for the piano and synths), led by Kevon's vocals for the most part.
Speaking of which, Kevon’s voice is high, melodious, and youthful - in some tones may resemble that of Michael Jackson's and Mick Hucknall's (Simply Red). Kevon grew up in the Caribbean Island of Trinidad & Tobago and later moved to NYC. Inspired by a variety of famous voices (Prince, Bob Marley, and John Lennon to name a few), he gained musical experience in both singing (lead vocals) and performing live with several tribute/cover bands. Lately however, Kevon has been focussing on making solo music - recording an album, mastering his voice, and song writing in general.
The target audience for 'Hey Alice' may vary, as it could seem to be a track meant for teenagers, but due to its accessibility it can be easily picked up by others. It's a memorable song that any modern radio station should appreciate, but it lacks any ground-breaking, unique attributes - that's why it may become a seasonal hit only. It fits the current trend of modern pop songs to be performed live, supported by a team of dancers and flashing stage lights. It’s easy to imagine ‘Hey Alice’ played for a large crowd singing along with the artist. Movie, advertisement, and TV entertainment execs are always on the lookout for songs based on light notes and romantic themes, so Kevon would be right to submit his single for their consideration.
(Reviewer: Katarzyna 'NINa' Górnisiewicz, Fabryka Industrial Rock & Metal Encyclopedia, January 22nd, 2018. Proofreading: Mike 'Vesper' Dziewoński)
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