Nowhere To Hide
Self-Released, 2024
9/10
The powerful Canadian blues singer Ollee Owens brings us 11 anthems, where soul and folk ideas are present for a listen that welcomes a large cast of players.
The title track starts rugged and expressive, where Owens’ voice makes an immediate impression alongside Tommy Sims’ fluid bass, and “Solid Ground” follows with Rahsaan Barber’s lively sax and Will McFarlane’s warm guitar that suit the soaring pipes.
Further along, Bobby Blazier’s meticulous drumming guides the melodic aspect of “Love You Better”, while “Shivers And Butterflies” embrace plenty of grooves via Chris Rodriguez’s spirited guitar and DeMarco Johnson’s agile keys.
Deeper still, “Love Hung Around” welcomes Gabe Klein’s well timed keys amid Owens’ smooth vocals, and “Lord Protect My Child” exits with Craig Young handing bass and Minnie Pearl’s emotive backing vocals for the gospel tinted finish.
A blues record with a wealth of influences, Owens possesses a voice you won’t soon forget, and the musicians present sure do flesh out a dynamic, sincere and down to earth effort.
Travels well with: Zac Harmon- Floreada’s Boy; Eric Bibb- In The Real World