Stories I Only Tell My Friends
Blackbird, 2025
9/10
Listen to Stories I Only Tell My Friends
The Chicago singer-songwriter and guitarist Nikki O’Neill is well versed in blues, rock, gospel, Americana and R&B, and she brings along some friends for these thoughtful tracks that surround a cross country move.
The upbeat and playful “Drive” opens with warm guitar and O’Neill’s bright voice alongside Rich Lackowski’s frisky drumming, and “Rainbow In The Cloud” follows with Chris Stanford’s cozy bass amid the soulful storytelling that comes with flowing melodies.
Arriving in the middle, the quick strumming of “I Wish The Sun Could Shine On Me” welcomes well timed backing vocals in a gospel climate, while “If I Got The Upper Hand” is bluesy moment of emotion and Chris Corsale’s meticulous guitar solo.
Residing close to the end, “Candy Apple Morning” comes with a charming, rootsy flavor thanks to John Abbey’s skilled bass, Teddy Myers’ strategic keys and O’Neill’s flowing voice, and “Newcomer Blues” exits with just O’Neill’s pipes and guitar that carries plenty of timeless folk qualities.
O’Neill is making her own kind of Americana, and it sure is memorable, delivered with much relatability, and showcases her talents with rhythm and acoustic guitar and glockenspiel superbly.
Travels well with: Jenn Howard- Valiant Woman; Lara Price- Half & Half