Leslie Evers is a contemporary folk artist who has just come to my attention thanks to the upcoming release of her second album. An eclectic collection that explores the theme of love in all its forms, it’s called Bound for Land.
By Graeme Smith
The album opens with Pull Your Heart Away and we are treated to an immediate sense of the intimate Leslie Evers sound. Acoustic guitar accompanies her expressive vocals in the first verse before licks of percussive second guitar come in for the memorable chorus. Storytelling lyrics make it an early highlight.
Someday When I’m Losing You is a slow, thoughtful and melancholic moment rich with emotion. Previously released single What Kind of a Heart features Joe Newberry and is a bright number that will have you moving along. It brings together traditional and modern Americana beautifully and is another highlight.
Almost in Love, another previously released single, is wonderfully romantic, bringing to mind the golden age of song-writing. Its use of minimalism maximises the feelings of its lyrics.
When You’ve Got It features Rick Ruskin and combines a swinging melody with a laidback style. Genevieve brings with it some pensive picking and is vibrant with heart-rending narrative. Paul canters along with a bluesy riff and ample soul. It’s another highlight.
Slow strips things back and has a touch of the timeless about it. You’ve Got That Magic is a bittersweet track with an encouraging message. Along the Rocky Way is a folk song that best showcases Leslie’s vocals during an a cappella opening verse. A live rendition of Little Bit Harder closes the album. A team-up with Woody Mann, it’s an attitude-filled closer and a final highlight.
Bound for Land was recorded and mixed by Grammy award-winning engineer Alex Venguer at 2nd Story Sound in New York City, USA. It was engineered by Oscar Zambrano at Zampol Productions, and produced by Ed Johnson. The album includes contributions by guitarist Rick Ruskin and vocalist and banjo player Joe Newberry. Cliff Eberhardt was involved in the arrangements. It will be released 2 February 2024 via Cumulus Records.
