ALBUM REVIEW: Elevate – Lee Aaron

Canadian rock singer LEE AARON has been on a roll since her comeback in 2016, with consistent releases since, and this year is no exception. Known for her powerful blues-inspired rock vocals and blazing attitude, Aaron’s newest album Elevate was recorded live with her band in Vancouver, and is likely to be another unique sounding record to add to her extensive discography. Although she’s been releasing music since the 80s, Aaron’s subject matter stays relevant, and these songs inspired by the issues caused by social media and political difference prove that. In an attempt to inspire love and human connection in these difficult times, Elevate is sending a clear message.

Elevate opens with Rock Bottom Revolution, a song that immediately feels true to Aaron’s style. With an intense bassline to draw you in, the glam rock inspiration drives the track. Aaron’s strong voice demands attention, and although the lyrics in the chorus are more on the simplistic side, the verses tell an interesting story and the vocals are undeniably addictive. Its message is loud and clear, and you can’t help but find yourself agreeing with her. Next is Trouble Maker, and its bluesy guitars create a really fun sounding song. While the lyrics are slightly questionable, the build-up to the later choruses really elevates them.

The first half of the album, while not bad at all, seems to be much of the same, with often repetitive lyrics and slightly random guitar solos. That isn’t to say the songs aren’t interesting, because they definitely can be, and Heaven’s Where We Are is a really nice change of pace. With Aaron’s vocals beginning as almost a whisper, they build into a more pop sound, with an inspirational, positive message, and the guitar works really well. The second half is where the album really comes into its own. Still Alive demonstrates the true range of Aaron’s voice, taking a fairly overdone concept and giving it a unique spin.

Red Dress is more of a ballad, and it’s done well. The piano accompanies the vocals perfectly, which feel almost like spoken word at the beginning, making this song a clear favourite. The lyrics are especially beautiful on this track, and they create the feeling of nostalgia really well. Spitfire Woman is another favourite, with really interesting though quite dark lyrics and a powerful, uplifting chorus. The use of strings on this song also make it really unique. Closing the album is its title track, Elevate, which is unfortunately the only song on the album that doesn’t seem to work as well. Although the message is clearly meant with good intentions, its political side feels a little bit shallow and disappointing. The music isn’t bad, and the guitar drives it through really well.

When the songs on this album are good, they’re amazing, and there are some that are unforgettable, but it takes quite a while to get to that point. The lyrics are clearly a high point, telling really interesting stories, and Aaron’s vocals are incredible the whole way through.

Rating: 7/10

Elevate is set for release on November 25th via Metalville.

Like LEE AARON on Facebook.