Sorrel Nation flexes her vocal repertoire on a debut album rich in breakout qualities. Traces of pop, rock and folk meld into an enticing body of work. LOST EN ROUTE is a 9-track pleasue launching a new name to many on the UK acoustic, roots and Americana scene. Those descriptive monikers are pinpointers to where this record is likely to be picked up, though its likeable qualities will offer no bounds to suitors. It has been a bubbling pre-album period for this Kent-raised singer-songwriter. Snippets of information and the odd video slipped out with word of mouth taking hold in tight communities. The first major push was the release of the THIRTY SUMMERS LIVE EP in the summer. This was an ideal release for an existing fanbase as it was bestowed with intimate qualities. On the other hand, the new album splendidly welcomes all-comers, and few who dip their toe in are likely to be disappointed.
We are reliably informed that Sorrel Nation is her real name; a distinct feature can play a large part in raising a profile. Name regardless, the upshot of the music is a style twisting the early 70s Laurel Canyon cliche into something quintessentially English, and thoroughly individualistic. A satiable voice smoothes the path for the songs to simmer and occasionally bubble into something livelier. The sound glides along an emotive highway picking up opportune moments to inject a slice of intensity.
Memorable albums are often characterised with opening tracks that seal the deal from the off. Sorrel Nation hits the jackpot with a piece of pure class in lead off track 'Crazy For You'. Sultry vibes ooze from this primed tune set to frequent many a playlist. To end on a high point, a decisive electric blast illuminates the closing. Building on a stunning start, the exotic piano intro to 'Old Man' launches another track to savour. A solid gold saloon song. Add some pedal steel and it would be a country classic. However it falls in line with the folk sentiments running through the seam of the album. Three songs in and cloud drifting musings kick in with the dreamy and effectually idealistic 'Living Free'. If you can't dream in songs, when can you dream. One that hooks you into its message.
Songs can be great vehicles for seeking solace and losing yourself in low moments. 'The Way The Moment Blows' opens the heart to grief and like all valued songs possesses a giving presence allowing the listener to take something personal from it. Once again a recurring theme of a superb band influenced soundtrack takes root. 'Eggshells' simmers in a light rock intro before settling at a careful pace allowing the lyrics to flesh out. Repetition can work well in a lyrical structure and here is a good example. 'Trouble Again' is a sprightly retro stroller injecting some feel good vibes via an instrumental assortment including fiddle et al.
You always a feel that a folk rock element is around the corner and it duly arrives in the track, 'Dead Man's Road'. An evolving beat leans in a rock direction taking the vocal style with it. Another story song adding to the narrative of the album. 'Wild Solitude' glitters in the penultimate slot. It possesses a mild opening with multiple strings heralding a gorgeous ballad that could become Sorrel Nation's trademark sound. The curtain for now is drawn in the company of the rousing title track. 'Lost En Route' finds its home as the perfect conduit for reconnecting with those things lost on the way.
LOST EN ROUTE significantly builds on the groundwork laid, both in tangible actions and likely lifelong dreams. A knockout cover captures the anticipated sound by visually signposting you to the aural pastures of serene music. Sorrel Nation is a name to remember for many reasons. Most notably a wonderful album.
