Walk Through Fire

Part of a new British Invasion—Taking on Americana, Soul, and Country!

I missed Yola until her amazing Freedom Rider verse on The Highwomen’s eponymous title track. That was followed up with four Grammy nominations for this debut album produced by Dan Auerbach (The Black Keys). Like the Highwomen she’s country but not country establishment, following into the nebulous American and American roots categories—but the distinct country vibe suggests she fits wherever she wants. The whole album has a positive nostalgic quality that made me want to jump in the car and drive.  There’s a very distinct tenor featured with her on the ballad, “Keep Me Here,” which had me rushing to make sure I was right—it was the incomparable Vince Gill. The Deluxe edition (on hoopla) includes two additional songs including a beautiful cover of “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.” Fans of The Highwomen, Brittany Howard, and Michael Kiwanuka will all find something here to love.