How Far
Self-Released, 2021
9/10
The moniker of vocalist, poet and songwriter Julia Rose Cummings, as Byla Rose the songstress offers us 5 very thoughtful tracks on this debut, where nods to the Laurel Canyon sound are certainly present amid a timeless emotional quality and even some grit, too.
The quick listen starts with the playful folk ideas of the anthemic “What Water Does”, where a soulfulness thanks to Cummings’ strong pipes make an immediate impression, and “How Far” follows with proficient acoustic guitar from David Immergluck, as Stephen Hodges turns in exceptional drumming.
At the halfway point, “A Secret” is a bare display of strategic pedal steel as Cummings’ expressive singing is both eloquent and moving, while “Time” glides with a rootsy energy that’s raw, inviting and full of soothing backing vocals from Kudisan Kai. “Last Call” exits the listen, and brings some bluesy swagger into the electric guitar friendly and very memorable finish.
Self-described as ‘Pacific Coast Folk’, Byla Rose is off to an impressive start, where similarities to Tom Waits or Fiona Apple won’t go unnoticed or unappreciated, and her strong lyrical content and organic song craft will resonate with fans of folk, Americana, or even the lighter, earlier days of rock.
Travels well with: Dave Desmelik- The Calendar Album; Sadler Vaden- Anybody Out There?