Mmm! This terrific new album by Vanessa could almost be described as a “one person band”. For certain this is an album of fine quality on every level. Vanessa handles vocals, bv’s, Alto & Tenor sax, flute, slide guitar, resonator guitar plus she has taken on engineering duties on some areas as well. Factor in all the lyric writing and composition and you will begin to understand my previous comment. However worry not as there are plenty of duties for other musicians as well.
Sonically the album takes us on a journey back to the glorious days of Stax and Fame Studios in Memphis and Muscle Shoals respectfully. Yes it really is that good! Listening to these eight cuts will leave you smiling and your ears demanding a replay. It is very clear that Vanessa has a massive respect for the past, for example on Rosetta. Acknowledging a massive debt to the torch bearer Sister Rosetta including lyrics like 'punches through the clouds breaking all new ground', ' she carried the torch so we can see a little bit better’ all sung with passion.
The horns jump out at you on Wild As A Rainstorm sitting alongside nice, weaving throughout, Hammond from Rev Charles Hodges serves as a bit of a beacon to those women who will follow on their own musical journeys.
If you like a bit of Funk then Elbow Grease is right up your street.
A simple resonator guitar underpins the beginning of album closer Warrior before the band joins in, again tipping her hat to the musical heritage of the strong women who came before. Certainly one of the best blues albums of 2024!
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