Hailey
Woodruff is the definition of a talented musician. Based out of
Southern California, she is influenced by a wide range of bands
including Pantera, Soilwork, and Tool as well as music from the jazz and
classical genres. Her diverse influences can surely be heard as each
song has something different to offer. Notably, she does it all on her
self-titled album, Hailey Woodruff LP. She backs her stunning
voice with her equally impressive skill on the guitar, bass, piano, and
drums. I do not know of many one man or woman bands, but Hailey Woodruff
has to be hard to top given what is displayed throughout these nine
songs.
The
talent of Hailey Woodruff is no more on display than it is on the
opener. “Solace in a Nightmare” comes out roaring with some blood
chilling vocals and roaring guitars, making for one fantastic song. It
is the type of first taste that leaves one immediately wanting and
craving more. Her voice goes deep under the skin and into the bones,
where it stays. Following up the stellar opening, “Cognizance” and “Only
One” are two different flavors of dark, with the former having a more
melodic edge to it and the latter getting dirtier and gritty, not to
mention the mesmerizing guitar action that helps to create a sense of a
foreboding atmosphere. The moving “Black & Red” is another one with
standout vocals. The music is toned down to give the song an ominous
feel to it. Also, the atmosphere is very dreamlike. Continuing from the
previous song, “Confession” jolts one back to full attention with some
sweet guitar action. The repetition makes it almost hypnotic.
The
guitar on “Silenced” steals the show. “Delinquent” is a hard, heavy
song that is unrelenting. The drums are crushing and give off an air of
brutality. I can most certainly hear the metal influences on this one. I
think it is the most memorable song on an album full of them. “Virus”
continues the dark and heavy trend. With a touch of sadness behind it,
“Floor of Deepest Walls” has a gothic vibe to it. It is dark, yet
alluring. The music is not as hard and overbearing as the previous
songs. Her vocals are at the front as the music lingers in the
background, supporting her beautiful voice.
Hailey
Woodruff’s self-titled album is a marvel. Such skill is on display that
it is hard to believe at times that is just one person creating this
fantastic music. This is easily one of my top albums of 2013 so far, and
without question. Every song reveals something new and peels back a
layer of her talent. Do not let this one pass by you, because it is
truly something to behold. More than memorable, once it is heard, it
will be hard to forget the name of Hailey Woodruff.
5/5 STARS
Key Tracks: Solace in a Nightmare, Black & Red, Delinquent
Brian McKinnon – Sr. MuzikReviews.com Staff
August 18, 2013
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