Singer, songwriter, and guitarist Oscar LaDell brings a world of experience to his self-titled debut solo release. With just four tracks he shows he’s an artist with an old soul who refuses to be pigeonholed.
Now based in Naarm/Melbourne, Oscar was born in Denver Colorado. He moved to Purakaunui in the South of Aotearoa/New Zealand before relocating here. You can hear all those influences in this music. Opening track “Somber Land” has a cool blues vibe. I can imagine it sitting neatly on the soundtrack of a modern Western noir movie. The gospel-esque choir intro of follow-up track “Summer Rain” signals a musical left turn. It’s a spiritual, soulful number which, like the song before it, feels classic. “Loving You” is every bit as romantic as its title suggests. It’s gentler and more vulnerable than the songs that came before it. With a sound that’s a little more stripped back, Oscar’s voice and lyrics draw you in. “Falling For You” brings the EP home with its irresistible groove.
With his commanding vocals, Oscar LaDell could sing the phone book. I also found myself relishing his guitar playing, appreciating the way his skill with this instrument elevated every track. But this EP shows he’s got more than that voice and gift with the guitar on his side. There’s a deep understanding of music, of genres, of how to craft songs that impact the soul and spirit. It’s the perfect introduction to his tunes, and a great sign of what’s to come. For more of Oscar’s music, check him out at one of his upcoming gigs:
19 May 2023 – Beneath Drivers Lane, Naarm/Melbourne (supporting Louis King & The Liars Klub)
20 May 2023 – The BEAST, Naarm/Melbourne (FREE – with Cherry Factory and Ella Lewis)
25 May 2023 – The Drunken Poet, Naarm/Melbourne
25 November 2023 – The Blues Train, Wadawarrung Country/Queenscliff
Image via Oscar LaDell EPK