LaTanya Farrell Delivers Artistry and Passion

What would you get if you crossed the voice of Mary J. Blige with the rootsy vibe of Lauryn Hill? A lucky audience at  Thursday night found out. 

Singer and songwriter LaTanya Farrell promptly took the stage and provided perhaps the venue’s most original performance of the summer. Backed by the talented Bookman-Styles Band, Farrell offered a mix of originals and covers.

Farrell’s originals such as "There is Love in This House" had a mellow quality. The band's soothing tones combined with the singer’s soulful delivery suggest that their fullest potential may only be realized in an acoustic setting. 

Farrell, who is a West Hartford native, performed "Never Ever," which is a song about a military wife who lost her husband in Afghanistan. The winsome ballad drew multiple couples into the pit for a tender slow dance. 

Farrell also took songs from several different genres and put her own unique spin on them. The best example of this was when she performed Eric Clapton's "Change the World." 

Bob Ryan, 65, of Terryville wanted to see at least one summer performance at the amphitheater because he thinks it is an excellent place to hear live music. 

“I looked at the schedule and checked out the artists’ websites. When I heard LaTanya’s songs, I knew I would enjoy this concert.” 

Andrew Heschles, 67, traveled from Woodstock to spend time with local friends. However, Farrell’s performance made the drive worthwhile.

“She’s tremendous,” he declared. “Definitely worth the trip.”

However, not everyone came purely to hear Farrell. The Bookman Styles Band also had its own fans. Awilda Arnold, 40, traveled all the way from Springfield just to hear them. 

“Love them,“ she gushed. “But, LaTanya is wonderful too.”  

The rolls on with Kick on Tuesday at 6:30 p.m.