With a lighter production touch by Mark Addison that in no way lessens its impact, The Calling is Patrice Pike’s statement of musical purpose. That it’s her first fan-funded effort speaks both to the times and her loyally enthusiastic followers, who contributed well beyond the stated goal. The Patrice Pike who fronted Nineties neo-funksters Little Sister is ever-present, but grown, matured, and exploring the places in the universe her powerful pipes take her. It’s interesting to note that Pike dwells less on the topic of love on this recording and more about its place in life (“Woman Waiting,” “Count on You”). Once she speaks to the unsteady matters of the human heart (“Push Me Over,” “I Won’t Give Up”), she’s off to “God’s Children.” Consider this a more expansive Patrice Pike, for whom the reggaeish title track and the melodies place her not far from Norah Jones; dreamy as the stars and still down-to-earth.
This article appears in October 11 • 2013.