Long Haul
sonaBlast!, 2024
8/10
The Kentucky resident Ben Sollee returns with his first solo studio effort in seven years, and it revolves around his battle with Covid, where his cello and singing takes nods to Paul Simon.
“Shine” opens the listen with the flowing cello that suits the expressive singing and Dan Dorff’s agile drumming for the rich delivery, and “Misty Miles” follows with strong attention to mood, as the emotive strings are met with Patrick Duke Graney’s warm percussion.
At the halfway point, “Sweet Blood” showcases Brandon Coleman’s intricate guitar for the cinematic and brass filled album highlight thanks to Stuart Bogie’s well timed horns, while “One More Day” benefits much from Alana Rocklin’s strategic bass and much soulfulness amid plenty of rhythm.
“Hawk & Crows” and “When You Gonna Learn” exit the listen. The former is soft and intimate via the stirring strings and powerful singing, and the latter exits with a heartfelt demeanor and much grace thanks to the gentle instrumentation.
A highly personal affair, Sollee has sorted through much in recent years, from health issues to the death of loved ones, and it’s all expressed here in thoughtful and universal ways that touch on folk, blues, R&B and singer-songwriter ideas.
Travels well with: Jeremiah Fraites- Piano Piano; The Gloaming- The Gloaming 3