CALUMET QUEEN is one of those albums that springs out of nowhere embodying all that is sought in music parading under the left of centre Americana banner. A unique aura surrounds the music of Kiely Connell radiating from a vocal presence aching with vulnerability and a lyrical output ebbing between personal reflection and astute observation. Great music can come from being challenged and the experience of submerging into the musical world of this now Nashville-based artist is one of sharing the truths, doubts and acts of seeking the light.
Originating from Hammond Indiana before heading to Music City to bring the dream to fruition, Connell takes part of the album name from the nearby Calumet River and the rest from whoever wears the crown. The title track is heralded as using the river as a metaphor for a life path. If you are going to get personal you might as well jump right in and go with the flow. From this starting point Connell lures the listener down an awkward road. A fascinating listen is a derived conclusion, although part-gripping, part-grappling and in parts uncomfortable are all staging posts on the journey of the Calumet Queen.
The worn vocals shake the experience of tapping into the music of Kiely Connell to the bone. Yet they are the embodiment of an impassioned singer-songwriter and an enormous part of what draws you into the album; one of a hard hitting nature and a highly credible debut status. The slow burning nature of it will only add to the magnitude as it does take time to sink in and truly expand its worth. Once embedded its take on the struggles of the rust belt meeting southern sentiment serves up an album of unique familiarity.
Themes on the album range from depression in 'The Blues That Really Burn' to abusive relationships in 'Clear My Mind'. Add into the mix self medication in 'Nobody's Business But Mine' (a strong case for the album peak) and panic attacks in 'Disappear' paint a stark picture of the strength of this album's darker side. Harshness and brutality linger under the surface but you only go near albums like this with a worldly view that Americana music is partially designed to take you down roads of an alternative nature. This is the truth and candour of music that rewards intuitive endeavour. For a real slice of observational excellence 'Caroline's Corner Cafe' is one of those songs compelling you to intently repeat the listening experience for further dissection.
Away from the connotation, the soundtrack flourishes from a touch of cello, steel, fiddle, bass and percussion. All components make this a captivating listen and note the name of Kiely Connell as an artist right on the pulse of making absorbing music. If Lucinda Williams coined the phrase 'down where the spirit meets the bone, it is successfully found here. CALUMET QUEEN possesses the sincerity of country, the soundscape of folk and the trappings of Americana. It is a self released personal journey of lifelong reflection and ripe for whichever genre stakes it claim.