Rootsville Review

© Rootsville 2021 This Leeann Atherton will be a blank slate for many. The fact is, however, that her new album, "Fallen Angel" is an ideal introduction. It reflects a unique talent, a woman who easily navigates between different genres and manages to avoid being typed into a particular genre. She changes style as easily as she did during her musical journey, a journey that took her from Charleston to Nashville, and eventually to Austin, the place she currently calls home. Whether it's the exuberant energy of the opening track 'Smack Dab in a Miracle', the compelling conviction of 'Fallen Angel' or the celebratory attitude of 'Cleaning House', Atherton's relentless ability to convey a remarkable range of emotions and expression beyond, makes her a unique presence, regardless of the setting or circumstance. The blues and gospel filtered through "Lift Me Up" is as mesmerizing as it is masterly, just as the soul and sass driving "Champagne and Pills" underscores her ability to blend her drive with defiance. Likewise, "Cheaters Game" and "Little White Lies" spare no empathy for those who cross the mirror from trust to betrayal. Collaborating with producer Mac McNabb, who also leads the way on guitar, longtime Austin singer-songwriter Atherton serves up a dozen original tracks that showcase her organic balance of soul, folk, blues and other styles. The album is notable in part for the three-track presence of noted drummer Barry "Frosty" Smith in what was likely one of his last sessions before his death in April 2017. The spiritual closing track, "Motherless Children's Club", was recorded. attend the memorial service for Atherton's mother. Here's a recent live version of the album track "Straight From the Heart". track: 01. Smack Dab In A Miracle 02. Joy 03. Fallen Angel 04. Straight From The Heart 05. Brand New Way Cool 06. Eve 07. Lift Me Up 08. Champagne And Pills 09. Cheater's Game 10. Little White Lies 11. Cleaning House