Miss Emily – Defined By Love
Self-Release – 2022
12 tracks; 45 minutes Miss Emily, also known as Emily Fennell, hails from Ontario, Canada, and has been a musical force since the turn of the millennium. With three previous albums under her belt, the latest release, "One Song Left," marks her fourth venture into the studio. Collaborating with Steve Marriner of MonkeyJunk fame as the producer, Miss Emily assembles a talented ensemble featuring Jim Bowskill on guitar, Steve O’Connor on keys, Seamus Cowan on bass, and Rob Radford or Ian McKeown on drums. Noteworthy contributions come from Tom Moffett on trumpet, Bunny Stewart, and Andrew Moljgun on saxes. The album boasts a diverse vocal palette with backing vocals from Ben Vandergaast, Steve Marriner, Quisha Wint, and Lynn Fennell.
The album, while the fourth under the Miss Emily moniker, diverges from traditional blues expectations. Recorded with a stellar lineup, including notable guest appearances, "One Song Left" showcases Emily's strong and clear vocals, taking the listener on a journey through various musical landscapes.
The presence of Canadian rock band The Trews' "To The End Of The World" and Radiohead's "Just" in the tracklist provides glimpses into Miss Emily's influences. The former is a gentle ballad with harmonies, while the latter pounds along a robust guitar riff supported by horns. The closest encounter with the blues arrives with "Make It Rain," Emily's original song about redemption and renewal, featuring powerful lead vocals and harmonies, accompanied by discreet horn support on the choruses.
The album explores catchy Americana in tracks like the title song, featuring a soaring repetitive chorus, and "Silver Lining," exuding an upbeat, positive vibe. A hint of New Orleans flair graces "Friends, Lovers, Foes," and "Glory" serves as a powerful showcase for Emily's commanding vocal presence. Stripped-back ballads form a significant part of the album, with heartfelt compositions such as "One Song Left," a piano-led memoir, and "Three Words," a piano-driven song full of angst. "The Keeper," accompanied solely by co-writer Rob Baker on guitar, conveys a sense of doom as Emily holds space for someone.
While "One Song Left" may not cater to committed blues enthusiasts, those with a taste for Americana infused with strong female vocals are in for a potential gem. Miss Emily's latest endeavor is a testament to her versatility and ability to traverse musical genres, offering listeners a captivating experience beyond the traditional blues boundaries.
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