Americana
Red Hot, 2021
8/10
The New Orleans artist Lilli Lewis brings much diversity to this return to form album that places folk and roots ideas at the forefront and comes with a large ensemble of musicians to help flesh out the very articulate affair.
“My American Heart (Prelude)” starts the listen, and offers a quick a cappella moment that’s steeped in gospel nods, and “Copper John” follows with warm guitar and well timed keys adding much grace to Lewis’ soulful singing in the country-friendly climate.
There’s 13 tracks present, and each one retains its own identity, including the expressive and eloquent “If It Were You”, which flows with a poetic quality, while “Wednesday’s Child” lands in piano balladry with Lewis’ powerful pipes illuminating the sublime setting. “A Healing Inside” then brings us back to the church with the many vocals that don’t need instruments to highlight the immense beauty and spirituality present.
“The Great Divide” arrives near the end showcasing crisp drumming amid some very radiant R&B influences, and “My American Heart (Benediction)” finishes the listen with a lengthier version that brings soothing strings and a dreamy demeanor into the stunning singing.
Certainly a pandemic record, Lewis states that ‘these stories were meant to reflect the humanity of the forgotten, because in times like these, it feels like dignity can be really hard to come by”, and her blues, folk, jazz, funk, soul and roots flavor makes for a very creative, enlightening and memorable listen.
Travels well with: Abby Bryant & The Echoes- Not Your Little Girl; Single Girl, Married Girl- Three Generations Of Leaving