One Guitar Woman
Stony Plain, 2024
9/10
An acoustic solo album from the always impressive Sue Foley, the 12 tracks here are a tribute to the female pioneers of guitar, where Foley tips her hat to those that paved the way for many to follow.
“Oh Babe It Ain’t No Lie” starts the listen with Foley’s soft and mesmerizing guitar that suits her flowing and distinct singing, and “In My Girlish Days” follows with a spirited, bluesy appeal that allows her diverse range to be explored with much soul.
Further along, “Motherless Child Blues” recruits Foley’s meticulous guitar playing amid much beauty from the flawless singing, while “Nothing In Rambling” is a bit more playful and a bit quicker via the bright melodies and southern flavor.
Residing near the end, “Freight Train” uses finger picking for the album’s best that carries a retro-appeal with louder singing, and “La Malaguena” exits with a Flamenco delivery that’s cultured and captivating.
Foley is now 13 albums deep, and like everything she’s done, it’s a top notch blues affair, where a nylon-string acoustic guitar and flamenco Blanca are put to excellent use.
Travels well with: Sue Foley- Live In Austin Vol. 1; Angela Strehli- Ace Of Blues