The voice of Julie Rhodes is no stranger to these ears. I have been listening to this gal for a while now, her debut recording “Who’s That Yonder?” fell onto the Red Line list of best things I heard in 2014. I described it as “the little EP with a huge sound that hit me like a ton of bricks.” And that sentiment sure as hell hasn’t changed in 2015.
Well, after a long journey Julie has announced the release of her full length debut record on February 26th titled “Bound to Meet the Devil”. Much of it was tracked at the wonderful Dirt Floor studios in Chester, CT under the watchful eyes (and ears) of Eric Lichter and Jonah Tolchin and I tell you the results are fantastic. With guest spots from world renowned musicians Spooner Oldham, Sara Watkins, Greg Leisz and of course the folks who, in my eyes, are some of the most talented musicians in the world and Julie’s pals. Hell, they even made the trek to FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals for some additional tracking work.
The first track off of the record isn’t quite as gritty and and lowdown as I have come to expect from the soulstress singer and her live performances, but she still maintains that growl and chest rumbling howl when it is most impactful. Reserving the most cutting notes for when they will matter the most. A skill and decision that really works for the singer-songwriter. I find where ‘Yonder’ had a bit more charm and downplay in its production we get more polish and refinement on ‘Devil’. Which is just fine by me. Bluesy and badass, that my friend’s, is what defines Julie Rhodes. Check it.