Hannah Aldridge - Gold Rush

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Southern delights 

Hannah Aldrdige is an American Country artist hailing from the deep south of the good old USA where this style of music is king. The south also deemed the Bible belt music where songs are all about whiskey or Jesus, or maybe a combination of the two. But perhaps we can move away from the stereotypes and see what is actually made, this being Hannah’s second album following her initial 2014 release ‘Razor Wire’.

The record is recorded in Nashville (hold on we are moving away from those stereotypes) and is sung in the Country drawl you would expect, and I am sure I heard at least one mention of Jesus, but beyond that it is a well-constructed record. The songs are well written and crafted and take in aspects of Pop, Folk and Blues as well as the Country sounds. I must admit to being sceptical at first but a few tracks in and the album draws you in.

The album opens with ‘Aftermath’ a more upbeat number that peaks the interest and gives you an idea of what to expect with a strong drum track more expected on a rock or pop song that a country one, the mixing of styles alluded to. ‘Burning down Birmingham’ (which does mention whiskey at the start) is more of a slow burner about the past, but Brummies don’t need to worry I don’t think she intends to commit arson in the West Midlands.

Other stand out tracks for me were ‘Living on Lonely’ another slower one but really showcases her vocal ability and the rather sensual ‘Lace’ showing the more sensual side. The album is concluded with title track ‘Gold Rush’ seemingly about returning to your home town, a darker number lyrically, but to me not the best on the album so it sort of fizzles to an end, although I suspect it is a very personal song to Hannah herself. Overall a nice listen which I enjoyed more than I expected to, I genuinely think it would appeal to Folk and Soft Rock fans as well as of course those like a bit of Country music. 

Check Out! the Video for 'No heart left Behind' Below...