Pike & Sutton is a partnership, a creative evolution and a promise fulfilled. Equally anchored by the powerhouse vocals of Patrice Pike and the electrifying guitars of Wayne Sutton – best known as co-founders of ‘90s seminal jam band/modern rock favorites Sister Seven – their debut album Heart Is A Compass is both a transformative celebration of the pair’s R&B, soul and roots influences and an exhilarating call-to-arms for the faithful.
“Neither of us had a grand vision,” explains Wayne. “We just assumed it would be eclectic, because that’s who we are.” Co-produced by Pike, Sutton and Grammy-winner Jim Watts – known for his work with Emmylou Harris, Ben Harper and Kelly Clarkson – the album crackles with passion, vision and undeniable hip-shaking rhythms. “There’s something that happens when you make music together for a long time,” Patrice says.
It’s on standout songs like the rousing “Take A Stand”, the roots-funk sway of “Let The Music Get You High” and the album’s intimately affecting title track that the album’s message of optimism – and call-to-action – truly takes flight. Heart Is A Compass is also an incredibly soulful record; Sutton’s distinctive guitar delivers deeper textures and more expressive peaks than ever before, while Pike’s always-formidable voice – Billboard calls her “one of the finest contemporary rock singers in America” – has now richened into a remarkable instrument of prowess, emotion and truth.