SIERRA FERRELL, LONG TIME COMING – REVIEW
by John Gaddis
Hailing from West Virginia, now based in Nashville, singer-songwriter Sierra Ferrell makes her debut on Rounder Records with Long Time Coming. Co-produced by 10-time Grammy Award-winner Gary Paczosa (Alison Krauss, Dolly Parton, Sarah Jarosz) and Australian musician Stu Hibberd.
Long Time Coming explores a varied sonic palette. Tango rhythms, with authentic bluegrass picking, laced with authentic classic country, fill the many grooves of the album. Twelve tunes are either written or co-written by Ferrell, which as the artist states, fits her varied musical tastes. In addition, the album is supported by a cast of guest musicians, including Billy Strings, Sarah Jarosz, Dennis Crouch, Jerry Douglas, Tim O’Brien, Chris Scruggs, and Rory Hoffman.
The first track, “The Sea,” signals that Ferrell is an artist of astonishing sensitivity. Her warming voice is entrancing from the first notes. Thematically the song is the age-old story of scorned love, and Ferrell brings every nuance of the lyrics to life. A traditional county sound becomes vivid with “Bells of Every Chapel” featuring Billy Strings. Ferrell evokes a classic vibrato that harkens to a time of innocence.
On “Why’d Ya Do It,” Ferrell offers a classic sound of exotic that transports the listener to the streets of Paris, replete with accordion and the air of haute couture.
Ferrell is delightful. Her authenticity and treasure trove of captivating songs is memorable. Her voice is immediately inviting and will captivate your heart—a worthy addition to your collection, whether country, singer-songwriter or Americana listener, this one will delight.
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