Let me say right up front that I love Sleeping Beauty: You Are the One You Have Been Waiting On – Volumood One as much for the story behind the artist, Abby Dobson, and the making of this album as I do the music that’s on it.

This debut album b Ms. Dobson is, as many albums these days are, self-financed.  However, what makes the financing of this album a bit different is that she utilized a method common in her Caribbean heritage know as “sou-sou,” wherein friends regularly contribute to a fund from which each contributor can take out funds in turn.  The History and Political Science major’s spunk, determination and entrepreneurship gave a very solid foundation to Abby’s natural talent on top of her own personal finances, hard work and unusual determination to make this project happen. 

Sleeping Beauty consists of thirteen songs mostly of Ms. Dobson’s creation, each one graced with a piece of her soul and personal story.  The album opens with Cool Rain: A Prelude for Horns and then eases into the sole reggae tune, I’m Drownin’, on the CD.

Didn’t Know You’d Be The One offers up a unique blend of pop, soul, jazz, blues and country into a bitter sweet love song with some unique twists and turns contained with the lyrics.

My personal favorite , Still Alive, is a tribute to Stevie Wonder, Bill Withers, Joni Mitchell and Sweet Honey in the Rock.  If I didn’t know any better, I would say that Ms. Dobson’s vocals on this song is what one would get if you could mix Whitney Houston’s and Joni Mitchell’s voices together. 

Deeply is another one of my favorites with Abby’s smooth yet intricate vocals delivering the lyrical story of a woman afraid to love and to be loved.

Each and every song on Sleeping Beauty is delivered with heart-felt emotion and sincerity as only one who has experienced the story of each song can do.  The CD comes with an exquisitely detailed booklet providing Ms. Dobson’s thoughts and insights into each song on the album.

For those of us who love albums that compels one to listen – really listen, Sleeping Beauty is an excellent addition your listening library. In the mean time, keep a keen eye on Abby Dobson. I have a feeling that we’re going to hear a lot more from, and about, this amazing, inspiring woman.