Nalani Rothrock – The Rock House Sessions (Extended Cut)
Jolani Music Group
9 Tracks – 36 minutes Nalani Rothrock, a musical force hailing from Tampa Bay, Florida, unveils a soul-stirring collection in "The Rock House Sessions (Extended Cut)" under the Jolani Music Group label. With a rich musical history, having performed since the tender age of 8 and later joining her father's band at 12, Nalani Rothrock's artistic journey has culminated in a collaboration with co-writer and partner Joshua Lamkin. Their relocation to Nashville in 2011 marked a pivotal moment in her career, leading to a serendipitous encounter with Kevin
McKendree, the owner of The Rock House Studios in Franklin, Tennessee.
The album's genesis was impacted by the pandemic, interrupting the recording process after three initial tracks. Undeterred, Nalani Rothrock released these as an EP titled "The Rock House Sessions" in 2021. As the music industry found its footing amidst the pandemic's challenges, Nalani returned to the studio, crafting an additional six tracks to compile the
"Extended Cut" of "The Rock House Sessions."
Guided by Kevin McKendree's production and keyboard expertise, Nalani's vocals and Joshua's guitar work create a captivating soundscape. The collaborative effort expands with the inclusion of talented musicians: Steve Mackey on bass, Lynn Williams and Kenneth Blevins on drums, Bryan Brock on percussion, Andrew Carney on trumpet, and backing vocals by Nicole Boggs, Jonell Mosser, and Jackie Wilson.
The nine original tracks seamlessly traverse blues, jazz, soul, and country influences, highlighting Nalani's versatility. Drawing comparisons to vocal powerhouses like Norah Jones, Susan Tedeschi, and Bonnie Raitt, Nalani Rothrock's vocal delivery emerges as a defining feature.
The album opens with the evocative "Every Time I Close My Eyes," where Nalani's vocals, Joshua's reverb-laden guitar, and Kevin's organ create a tapestry of introspection. "Fool For You" unfolds as a bluesy love ballad, marked by acoustic guitar nuances and Andrew Carney's sultry trumpet interludes.
"Just Before I Go" introduces a full-throttle rock 'n' roll vibe, exploring the challenges of navigating love. "Hold On" returns to a smooth soul groove, featuring Kevin's expressive organ work. In "How Long," Nalani's emotive vocals shine against a rocking, soulful backdrop.
"Midnight" reminisces about a tender moment, accompanied by Joshua's smooth guitar phrasing. The poignant "Goodbye" explores the ache of separation, while "Try" introduces a country-infused feel without losing its blues essence. The album concludes with the bluesy lullaby "Little Bird," where Nalani's vocals intertwine with Joshua's expressive slide guitar.
Throughout the album, Nalani Rothrock's vocals remain a consistent highlight, delivering each lyric with exquisite precision. Fans of acclaimed female vocalists will undoubtedly find themselves captivated by Nalani's seamless vocal prowess in "The Rock House Sessions (Extended Cut)."
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