Self Made Man
Tricki-Woo, 2020
9/10
It’s been an impressive decade for the sister act Larkin Poe, who have found themselves Grammy Nominated while also releasing a handful of widely praised records, Self Made Man, the 5th album from the Lovell sisters, again showcases their multifaceted version of rock, where their respective instruments shine in the eclectic and unpredictable environment.
The title track starts the listen with thick guitars as strong, soulful vocals enter the riff heavy setting, and “Holy Ghost Fire” continues the mood with spirited guitar work and crisp percussion in the rhythmic atmosphere that takes firm nods to classic rock.
Further along, Tyler Bryant is on hand for the southern rock and gospel influences of “Back Down South”, while the playful “God Moves On The Water” is one of the album’s best that glides with a snappy feel of rugged melodies and thriving roots rock. “Scorpion”, another stand out tune, then thumps with bluesy feelings amid some of the most fluent singing and strategic twang.
Close to the end, “Ex-Con” moves with a calmer pace of Americana and county tinted beauty, and the swift, dance friendly “Easy Street” exits the listen with charming honky tonk flair you won’t forget anytime soon.
These young ladies just keep making one fantastic record after another. Their talent appears boundless, and their storytelling abilities seem wise beyond their years. If you haven’t familiarized yourself with Larkin Poe’s thoughtful brand of rock, you may as well start here as you’ll be hard pressed to find anyone else doing it better.
Travels well with: The Devil Makes Three- Chains Are Broken; William Elliot Whitmore- Kilonova