Reviews
Dancing in the Storm
By
Geez Louise
Written by
Steve Sheppard
It was a time for a new chapter for me, as we feature Geez Louise and her new release Dancing In The Storm.
Geez Louise aka Louise Dimiceli-Mitran, steps up to the proverbial plate and produces one of the most vibrant vocal albums you will have heard for quite some time.
I have always been told that you need to start off any album with a truly strong track or intention, and the artist certainly does that with the full flowing narrative of Being With You, this flourishing light rock creation reminds me in compositional structure, to the music of The Travelling Wilburys, remember them? Then we move onwards to another favourite of mine called Already Gone, no not the Eagles track from the album of the same name, but a smooth ballad that does actually have a little Eagles or Don Henley feel to its overall mood, the overlaid harmonies here are delicious.
The rhythmic progression on this next piece is simply smooth and called Mexico. Now whilst this is a country I am very unlikely to ever go to, I can do so vicariously with this composition, one that also has a clever hook of a chorus as well.
The listener will find something to please them in all ways within this 13 track creation, perhaps offerings like If You Do, which contain some quite amazing guitar that reminded me of Chris Rea in tone, and performed brilliantly by Kraig McCreary, or they may find solace in the title track Dancing in the Storm, kudos to the artist for their beautiful acoustic guitar presentation, and the amazingly powerful and uplifting vocals on this piece.
The tempo picks up once more as we get to the mid-way track of the album and the song called Hell in the Hallway; this is a classic driving song, full of rhythm, passion and undeniably addictive lyrics. Whilst on After All These Years we can bring a little folk into the scheme of things, this touching composition is so heart felt, and it must be said for those of you who love the nuances in an album, contains the cello of the ever talented Hans Christian.
Five Hundred Ways is one of those offerings that will engage the listener with its immediate chorus and hook line, and indeed it’s possible to say unusually, that 90% of songs of this album could easily be hit singles, perhaps even this one coming up now called Stand Up, now background vocals are just that, but the added tonal inclusion of Annie Mitran Brennan on them was nothing short of genius, as they created a tapestry of tone and timbre that was so symbiotically lush and textured.
We move to a locational track and a place I nearly ended up in by default, but that story is a little strange to recant here! However on the piece Chicago Song we have a personal tale told, and this is certainly one to pull up the lyric sheet to, it is so very moving, and sadly still relevant to the current day, on a musical note I adored the inclusion of Andy Mitran on piano on this heart felt manifestation.
We now move into the deeper waters of this release, and as we do so we come across a track called Connection, now here is a theme that reminded me fellow American new age band The Song Gardeners in content, and yes, another song I would recommend as a possible single release, and perhaps one that may even become a bit of an anthem for the artist in times ahead.
The penultimate offering is entitled Free, and here the artists gifts us a song that in a way is a reminder for us all to embrace life while we have it, and then to conclude the album we have a true classic last composition, and this final musical gift is called You Are A Light, another anthem like offering that is as easy on the ears as an early sunny Sunday morning is on the senses, and a sublime way with which to leave the album, one that contains a wonderful feeling of positivity and hope, something we all need now more than ever before.
Dancing in the Storm by Geez Louise is a vocal based album that will take the listener on a voyage of musical interest; it will explore heart felt narratives and also have that sublime sense of rhythm that the feet will not be able to resist tapping to. Dancing in the Storm by Geez Louise breathes a breath of fresh air and hope into the hearts and minds of the listener, and as such I can see this album becoming a bit of a big hit on the charts for the artist.
Mary K Doyle, MidwestMary.com
03/10/25
If you haven’t heard of Louise Dimiceli-Mitran, please allow me to introduce you to her. Louise is a singer, songwriter, guitarist, lyricist, counselor, and music therapist in Chicago. She’s a long-time friend of mine—we’ve shared about 30 years of friendship—and a woman I greatly admire.
Louise has a new CD, GeezLouise, that you’ll easily connect with. All songs were written and sung by her in a clear voice that rings clear and true.
The theme is love in its many forms, and I have many favorites in this collection.
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“Being with You”—“. . . when my heart beats a little stronger.”
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“Already Gone” is a fun breakup song. Louise sings, “By the time no love is left in your eyes, I’m already gone.”
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“Mexico”—“. . . taking you to Mexico because we gotta let go.”
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“If You Do”—"If you do what you’ve always done, you’ll get what you’ve always gotten.”
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“Dancing in the Storm”—one of my favorites which highlights the ups and downs of relationships. Louise sings, “When they come for me, I want to be dancing in the storm.”
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“Hell in the Hallway”—“When one door closes, another opens, but it’s hell in the hallway.”
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“After All These Years”—"I’ll be standing by, come what may.”
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“Five Hundred Ways”—"Years from now, when we’re older with more years behind than ahead, we may not remember it all but it’ll never go left unsaid that there’s…five hundred ways I love you.”
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“Stand Up”— This is a song of encouragement. “Stop waiting for something or someone else to change things for you. Don’t be afraid to stand up.”
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“Chicago Song”—tender, meaningful, and emotional lyrics centering on the places in Chicago that remind Louise of activities with her family. She sings of her parents and a brother lost in a war.
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“Connection”—“. . . the many ways you feel your connection to me.”
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“Free”—is about a loved one who’s passed away. The lyrics say, “When the moon has the nerve to glow, the earth keeps turning, children are playing, and I’m still breathing, your spirit is flying free. Free of your body. Free of your pain. Who am I to say it’s not better that way.”
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“You are a Light"—This is one I’ve played repeatedly. “I honor you as part of me. Inside my soul, inside my heart, your light shines in.”
GeezLouise is recorded, mixed, and mastered by Andy Mitran, an award-winning musician, at Mitran Mitran Studios, Chicago who happens to be Louise's husband.
The album can be found on Bandcamp. Please go there to listen to or purchase these songs. I'm sure you'll easily find your favorites.
©Mary K. Doyle, 2025
Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-MuzikMan.net Reviews Founder
January 28, 2025
Louise Dimiceli-Mitran is GeezLouise, and her debut album is Dancing In The Storm. I got a chuckle with the name, as it is something I say when I refrain from swearing, which I am not always successful at! The caveat is that it is spelled with no space, making it unique. Louise's voice serves as another instrument throughout on this recording.
"Being With You" starts things off. A Finger Picking acoustic guitar begins, and then bass and drums are added as our star, Louise, begins to sing. Her voice is pleasant and smooth. This is upbeat pop with a catchy beat and hook. We are off to a great start with the leadoff track.
"Already Gone" immediately had me thinking of the '70s Eagles hit (however, there is no comparison here). The music and vocals have a soft but steady flow. You will notice that Louise has some range and can get relatively high. I appreciate how she inflected that range when there was a need to express more emotion with particular words in the tracks—nicely done all the way around.
"Mexico" carries the warmth of that country; the sunshine, water, and charm of that is an invitation to let the world melt away and enjoy all the pleasures available. It is the second longest track, with music that lays a solid foundation for Louise to impart her lovely vocals and pleasant lyrics. She sings, “There is no need to shiver under the trees and the canopy because the water is warm.” Time let go in Mexico, so who can say no? It has the Jimmy Buffett feeling, with its specific musical elements or lyrics here resonating all the way through.
"If You Do" starts with an electric guitar lick, giving it an immediate charge of energy going in a different direction than previous starts. The bass and drums are solid and hold the rhythm nicely, and the vocals are sweet, clear, and impactful. These tracks all have a hook that grabs you, and this one was impressive in that area. Some lovely background vocals are an added layer that was pleasing. The electric guitar is distinctly understated, ensuring the vocals remain out front where they need to be. The guitar was allowed to cut loose towards the end, which I enjoyed.
"Dancing in the Storm," the title track, is always crucial to the album. A nice acoustic guitar begins, and Louise's vocals are beautiful, expressing the heartfelt lyrics. The lyrics are something we all can relate to. If you can be "Dancing In The Storm," you have the vigor, fortitude, and wherewithal many people do not. It is a song of hope, faith, and encouragement we all need to hear at different times. The beautiful music has vocals that are perfectly matched. Hans Christian would make a notable contribution here on his cello.
"Hell in the Hallway" starts with fast-paced energy compared to previous tracks. It has hooks, inspired lyrics, and some great guitar lines. This track is filled with inspiration for those who may be on a rough road. It might be hell, but Louise and the band show you there is a way out.
"After All These Years" begins with an acoustic guitar and well-placed electric notes to accentuate the composition. It is a song of reassurance and positivity that keeps the flow of good messages being offered in all this music and lyrics. The singer reminds us that it's like a phoenix rising at dawn; the person delivering the message tells the other one that he will always be there for them. Once again, Hans Christian performs on his cello, giving the track another layer of beauty.
"Five Hundred Ways" starts with the familiar acoustic guitar. I could hear the fingers squeaking a bit on the strings, which is the norm, and it means whoever is playing is giving all they have for the song. It is another uplifting, energetic, soft pop-rock tune. Another friendly reminder from the singer is that there are many ways to tell someone how you love them. This is a beautiful message, with uplifting music supporting the vocals. There are exceptional background vocals on this one towards the end.
"Stand Up" features a nice acoustic guitar, picking out some notes as the piano joins in for a few moments. Her soft yet practical touch complements the music, and the music does the same for her. She sings, "Stand up and be your own best friend. " Now, that is a strong message to a listening audience. If you have that kind of self-respect, others will respect you without question.
"Chicago Song" is a reflective song about life, your roots, and the emotional journey that brought you to where you are. Louise's emotional depth is palpable as she sings about her parents, stepping into their shoes as she navigates different parts of the city. It's a poignant exploration of war, family, and all the complex emotions that come with it. The music provides a rich, evocative backdrop, making the emotional journey feel all too real. This is the one track that went straight to my heart more so than any other.
"Connection" is a strong word; in this case, it is about your connection to Mother Nature and the person singing. Her lovely voice feels like a warm summer breeze crossing over your face, bringing a feeling of well-being. There is excellent piano and guitar, and the rhythm section is spot on.
"Free" starts with a country-flavored guitar as Louise maintains her sweet and genuine vocal style. I think many listeners will appreciate how she sings and that the lyrics are easy to understand. The music always becomes the ultimate companion, allowing her style to shine nicely. The guitars are exceptional; you will also hear how long she can hold one of those high notes!
"You Are a Light" is a spiritual track that fits well to close out the album. The guitar plays a significant role in this piece, mixing acoustic notes, rhythmic Finger Picking, and tasteful electric guitar lines. This combination creates a beneficial, uplifting sound that resonates with the listener. It's another strong track musically and lyrically, leaving the audience with hope and light.
Dancing In The Storm is a soft rock pop album full of inspiration, energy, and light for those who need to find their way out of the darkness they may be in. The compositions and sound are excellent, and the musicianship is outstanding. I believe this is a strong debut from a singer with exceptional talent.
