Ghalia Volt Channels Grit, Groove & Southern Heat on ‘Burn The House Down’ (ALBUM REVIEW)

Ghalia Volt’s sixth album, Burn The House Down, was recorded in Nashville as Volt expanded her sound from her previous one-woman band style. Returning to the raw blues sound that first brought her attention, Volt sings with fire and plays with confidence on the satisfying record. 

Working with producer JD Simo, the album is focused on capturing the emotional essence of Volt’s 11 blues-based songs, not necessarily aiming for perfection. Simo also plays guitar with Volt (both credited with slide and electric) while drummer Chris Powell and bassist Brian Allen hold down the low end. Songs were recorded mostly live in the studio after one or two takes to keep the energy high.    

The crackling sound starts with the opener “No Ice Please,” as the blues rock churns out riffs that shoot back and forth. While Volt and Simo’s playing is stout, it is Volt’s vocals that display that extra special something. The sultry “Mine” delivers the goods, as does the more ominous “River Song,” both showcasing Ghalia’s strong singing style. 

The album is centered around the hill country blues riffs on tracks like the slide-laden “Where Do We Go”, the crunchier title track, and “Wreckin’ & Rollin’”, which features the best guitar solo on the album (which has surprisingly few extended solos). This traditional approach is fine, but can be a bit one-note. Volt and company excel when they make their own mark on the blues. 

The disco influenced “Ride” has a great bass line from Allen, while “Let Yo’ Hair Down” is a showcase for Powell’s funky drumming. The best efforts are the swaggering “Lucifer’s Grip,” which finds Volt in total control, and “Wrong Horse,” which plays like a James Burton guitar showcase from the ‘50’s as Simo and Volt trade sweet licks. 

Ghalia Volt and company sound as if they are having a blast on Burn The House Down, paying tribute to those who came before them while carving out their own path.