New live album Live at Sweetwater Music Hall showcases the immersive sound and musicianship of Seattle-based band Paula Boggs Band, conjuring a melodic Americana sound at a storied venue acclaimed for its acoustics. “Playing at Sweetwater Music Hall was a magical experience,” says band leader Paula Boggs. “The energy from the audience and the vibe of the venue brought out the best in us. We can’t wait to share that night with everyone through this album.”
“America 2020” opens the live set with a compelling build, traversing from slight piano and clap-laden intrigue into a sweltering array of guitars, strings, and harmonious vocal layers. “This never-ending freak show rocks every hour, every day,” Boggs lets out. “Exorcism, I need it now.” Call-outs to Erykah Badu, Nine Inch Nails, and other points of artistic inspiration continue the fun sound, bolstered by compelling guitar twangs across the second half. The organ-laden “A Finer Thread” follows, melding a smitten vocal sentiment — “I’m weak for you,” — with a more nocturnal flair; the album impresses in its dynamic tones, from reflective to rollicking.
The live album continues to delight from there, ranging from the ancestral inspiration “King Brewster” to the hypnotic groove of “Edith’s Coming Home,” which remarks that “love can be a cruel friend.” Live at Sweetwater Music Hall features a masterful performance from Paula Boggs Band, cementing themselves as fantastic artists in the Americana, folk, and rock realms.
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We discovered this release via MusoSoup, as part of the artist’s promotional campaign.
