I have always known that Elles Bailey’s vocal prowess can soothe, arouse or sting as necessary, but always captivate. Indeed, her last album, Shining In The Half Light only reinforced that comment as she ran through songs that, without exception, brought a freshness and bite to her blues-rock/roots catalogue.
Well, I am delighted to say that all of the above applies to her latest album, Beneath The Neon Glow, as her remarkable talents once again shine as she shares all kinds of emotions… in her own words: “I very much feel like this album was about exploring all the different parts that make me.” (By the way, Elles makes the trip across the River Severn to help on one track on the Llanelli-based rock band, Scarlet Rebels new album, Where Colours Meet.)
The album kicks off with a glorious slide on ‘Enjoy The Ride’… a rolling backing adds depth (six feet actually) as Elles brings a pop/country/blues blend that is so catchy and memorable, you just know that you will enjoy the ride. ‘Leave The Light On’ is in danger of showing up a raft of Nashville country rock artists; ‘1972’ is funky countryfied and full of memories if you were there… ”bell bottoms and platforms” is just one reference that hit the mark…. irresistible. ‘Truth Ain’t Gonna Save Us’ opens with a passionate vocal over acoustic strumming and builds to an electric performance.
My current favourite is The Kinks meets The Stones meets T Rex delight which is ‘If This Is Love.’ The album closes with a slow, bluesy and beautiful song which may surprise but it makes perfect sense on this album, the lyrics also hit home too…“Why slam the door when the demons are trying to break through, turn off the news.”
The album may not be as bluesy or rocky as previous releases but it is chock full of quality that shows Elles lyrical mastery and musical nouse very well indeed… even hardened rockers will find a place in their hearts for this exceptional talent.
Beneath The Neon Glow is out now via Cooking Vinyl.
