Belated better than never!
The hype around musician Paula Kelley lured me to Johnny D’s on May 14 even with a stomach ailment. Alright, well, I’m never really someone to turn down a cocktail either. Anyhow, Kelley is one of those local (Boston) musicians who garner a lot of criticism. But, after catching Kelley’s performance, I realized people are probably jealous of her songwriting ability.

Playing most of the songs off her latest album, The Trouble with Success or How You Fit Into the World, with an orchestra provided a powerful and impressive set.

A breat of fresh Boston air
Kelley is a breath of fresh air in the Boston music, which is often bogged down by shoegazer and indie rock bands. It’s refreshing to hear good pop music—especially live. While Kelley isn’t new to the scene, having played in various bands over the years like Boy Wonder and the Drop Nineteens, this is completely her “own” project.

I can’t help but think that Kelley’s songs are what pop music should sound like. You won’t hear any cheesy drum samples and moaning vocal parts here. Rather Kelley’s sound is reminiscent of good ‘ol 60s pop music like The Beach Boys with layers of different instruments. It isn’t boring. Add Kelley’s unusual sounding vocals—a mix—and you have a stellar set.

Plus, she’s just a classy lady, who doesn’t have to try too hard to keep an audience captivated. Although Johnny D’s wasn’t the busiest place in town that night (you could easily get a table to sit down) no one took their eyes off of Kelley during her set. There’s no phoniness here and that of itself is a major feat for any Boston musician.