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Yola

Album Review: Walk Through Fire by Yola (8/10)

The story of British artist Yola is, in many ways, a dream come true.  Her journey has taken her from poverty, homelessness and abuse to a trajectory joining Massive Attack, opening for James Brown and, now, recording her debut album in Nashville with The Black Keys' Dan Aeurbach.  Yola has a distinctive voice that walks a fine line between trad country and classic soul.  "Faraway Look" has a '60s Dusty Springfield quality and "shady Grove" sounds like a Phil Spector production fronted by Bobby Gentry.  In addition, the title track has a strong biographical element and "Ride Out in the Country" suggests a hint of Dobie Gray.

Rating: 8/10

Easy Eye Sound/Nonesuch Records
Producer: Dan Auerach