This Is How I Pray
EZ Come Ez Go, 2023
8/10
The first album from the singer-songwriter and guitarist Erika Olson, the 10 songs here are honest, rebellious and relatable, where plenty of folk and soulfulness is present and appreciated.
“Mom Life” opens the listen with cozy acoustic guitar and Olson’s wordplay that surrounds motherhood and welcomes Jonny Wright’s warm drumming, and “Hungry Little Bird” follows with Wright contributing piano and synth stabs to the playful folk-pop that you could dance to.
Elsewhere, the intimate spirit of “Wreckage” builds into dance-pop ideas where Olson’s voice soars, while “As I Am” showcases Dan Raza’s vocals and acoustic guitar in the sweet and mature Americana climate.
The final 2 tracks are among the best, where Chris Hillman’s emotive pedal steel adds much to “Momma Ain’t Got No Time”, and “Little Shoulders” places Wright on vocals for the powerful and lush finish of beauty, strength and dreaminess.
You might be reminded of Tracy Chapman, Brandi Carlile or Joni Mitchell when listening to This Is How I Pray, and Olson’s voice resonates with a similar timelessness that you won’t soon forget.
Travels well with: Helen Cronin- Landmarks; Laura Zucker- Lifeline