Born Healer – Herbs, Roots, Barks, Etc.
Spiral Sun Records SPIRALSCD2
10 songs – 46 minutes Born Healer, the London-based groove-heavy blues-rock quartet, has unleashed their latest offering, "Herbs, Roots, Barks, Etc.," after a six-year gestation period. Led by British Blues Awards-nominated vocalist Helen Turner and guitarist Iain Black, the band delivers a blistering mix of rock, a dash of soul, and ample sass across 10 tracks totaling 46 minutes.
Since their 2016 debut with 'Til the Dawn, Born Healer has become a mainstay in both the club and festival circuits. The ensemble also includes Marek Funkas, a London-based, Polish-born bassist with international touring experience, and drummer Steve Weaver, who splits his time with an AC/DC tribute band.
Recorded and mixed by Gabor Miko at The Sonic Bunker, "Herbs, Roots, Barks, Etc." leans predominantly towards the harder edge of blues-rock. The album kicks off with the driving and uptempo "Forgot to Forget," where Turner, having rediscovered love after a breakup, leads with soulful vocals against a catchy six-string hook.
The mood takes a shift with "Grievin'," a track that starts softly and builds tension as Turner announces her readiness to move on. The slow-paced rocker "New Moon Rising" showcases Turner's vocal prowess, setting the stage for "One of These Days," where Black takes center stage in a tale of a romance turning south.
Turner's vocal gymnastics take the spotlight in "Old Father Time" and the rocker "Share of Trouble," delving into the complexities of difficult love affairs. "These Blues" introduces a touch of azure in a heartfelt ballad of heartache, followed by "Wherever You May Be," offering a glimmer of hope. The tumultuous relationship is further explored in "Heavy Rumble" before the final track, "River ‘22," brings the set to a close.
While Born Healer may not strictly adhere to traditional blues, "Herbs, Roots, Barks, Etc." is a blues-rock odyssey that packs a punch. The band's top-notch musicianship, coupled with Turner's expressive vocals, makes this album a solid choice for rock enthusiasts. So, if you're in the mood for a dose of blues-rock with a gritty edge, Born Healer has concocted a musical potion that just might hit the right spot.
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