- Bryon Harris
Annemarie Picerno - 'Just Be Kind'
Review by Daniel Deprè & Staff
“Just Be Kind” Is an epic piano ballad that knows how to be truly expressive. Ranging from sentimental piano beds to momentous chorus’ with distorted guitars, this song has it all. There is a cinematic atmosphere present here; it would do so well in a movie. Annemarie's vocals are really unique with just the right amount of vibrato and a rich alto tone; they quiver with heartbreak and the performance is quite moving. The rest of the band is firm in their support, offering a helping hand, much like this song’s message which passionately encourages it's listeners to be kind.
The lyrics of “Just Be Kind” are a wonderful reminder to all of us who are so caught up in hate and dissonance that we should be kind to one another. The lyrics are written in such a way that they really tap right into your soul all while employing creative phrases and imagery. “Some people smile, seem happy all the time, deep inside they’ve lost their way, give breath and life to ones who fall, lend your hands, love and prayers.” The chorus then go on to remind us that there are much bigger issues happening to our world outside of ourselves, and the solution may actually be simpler than we think. “Oh, oh, the world is crying, people are dying, oh, oh, can we start loving? We’ve had enough! Oh, Oh, just be kind.”
The arrangement of “Just Be Kind” is dynamic and dazzling. Beginning the song with mainly piano and vocals is a wonderful start, setting up an emotional and gentle vibe. This makes the chorus sections hit harder where distorted guitars, drums, and a grooving bass come in rocking hard. The addition of wind chimes used for a few transitional moments is a beautiful texture, giving a slightly fantastical nature to its atmosphere.
To bring things to another fiery level, the bridge features a tasty and gnarly guitar solo that is expressive and very melodic. It’s really quite moving how the guitar solo continues into the final chorus, playing perfectly behind the vocalist. “Just Be Kind” is a powerful and epic song with a beautiful sentiment of love and peace.
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Stream on Spotify For more information on Annemarie Picerno, visit her website.
About Annemarie Picerno
Annemarie Picerno is a Grammy member, Americana Music Association member, and Indie Collaborative Artist. She is a Josie Music Award Winner for her hit song "Bonfire" along with being presented in 2019 and 2020 The Gran Royale Music Award, Holland Red Carpet 2020 Female Entertainer of Year, and a 2019 LDM Radio Music Award. She has performed in theater, bands in every musical genre, comedy shows, film, radio and television and is a popular radio host on several specialty featured radio stations. Her music videos are seen by millions on Bongo Boy TV and also on Rebel TV Productions , Roku and Apple Tv channels. Select releases of her hit songs can be found on the popular Bongo Boy Records albums. She has topped numerous Top 40 indie radio charts with her powerful voice and harmonies in country, rock, pop, blues, and American Roots.
For her latest single, "Just Be Kind," Annemarie Picerno has teamed up with renowned Nashville producer Bob McGilpin who has produced 13 of Annemarie's radio releases. Her music video COLOR BLIND released to television to much acclaim for her powerful message relayed in various characters portrayed and stunning visuals. Bob McGilpin's first release was 1978's "Superstar" on Butterfly records which became a Billboard hit along with "Sexy Thing" and "When You Feel Love." He had multiple major label record deals with Casablanca, RCA, and Butterfly/MCA and landed three #1 hits on the coveted Billboard Dance Charts. Together, Annemarie and Bob make a great team in their multi genre musical collaborations.