Album Review: Shemekia Copeland - Outskirts of Love
By Sam Tornow, Contributor
[Alligator Records; 2015]
Rating: 4.5/5
Key Tracks: “Outskirts of Love,” “Crossbone Beach,” “Cardboard Box”
With thousands of shows under her belt and a plethora of awards to her name, Shemekia Copeland is no stranger to the blues. In her newest venture titled Outskirts of Love, her experience shows through a blending of musical styles that push the boundaries of the modern blues artist.
The album kicks off with “Outskirts of Love.” This catchy tune will have even the most anti-blues listener singing along by the second chorus. The blues-funk track shows Copeland’s experience as she tastefully stays within a range that sounds just right for the song. Rather than revealing all her tricks at once, she leaves the audience wanting more.
“Crossbone Beach” is a heavy contrast to the intro. It’s a slow, dirty blues song which could be set to a Bonnie and Clyde montage and seem right at home. Over top the gritty instrumental, Copeland takes control with those commanding, strong vocal lines the listener has been waiting for since they first heard her iconic voice.
Even with her new age approach, Copeland has no problem paying homage to the traditional blues style with a song like “Cardboard Box.” In this old timey piece, Copeland talks about homelessness and struggle, something the blues was built upon. The simplicity is a nice step back from the more new age tracks throughout the album and give Copeland the chance to show off her roots.
The remainder of Outskirts of Love demonstrates Copeland’s musical talent as she not only performs her songs but also tackles covers of artists such as ZZ Top, Creedence Clearwater Revival and several others, while adding her own flare with roaring vocals and stylistic changes.
Outskirts of Love will have the listener dancing, feeling like a ‘20s mobster, teary-eyed and believing the blues are alive and well, all within the span of 43 minutes. Whether you’re a blues fan or not, Shemekia Copeland’s newest album has all the ingredients to make you one.
