The Toll
High Plains Sigh, 2024
9/10
The Austin singer-songwriter Amy Annelle is well versed in both Americana and folk ideas, and these 12 thoughtful songs are full of cathartic storytelling that’s reflective and powerful.
“Pull Tabs And Broken Glass” starts the listen with some warm twang and Annelle’s poetic and stirring voice alongside cozy acoustic guitar, and “Let Me Be” follows with stirring strings and expressive singing that also welcomes soft drums.
Moving into the middle, the strong attention to mood across “The Gate” emits a fuller delivery of rich, folk influenced sounds, while “Common Law Marriage” is a more playful moment of aching pedal steel, vocal scatting and country nods.
Residing near the end, “The Ballad Of Fire And Water” bring us a melodic and emotive album highlight that showcases the range of Annelle’s voice amid a heartfelt delivery, and “The Toll” exits with a rawness and authentic demeanor of forthright song craft that allows her vulnerability to align with timeless storytelling.
Annelle has dealt with a long period of illness, and this return sees the songstress sorting through much soul searching via the relatable experience that speaks long after the music stops.
Travels well with: Lana Nauphal- Wildland; Wild Ponies- Dreamers