Album Review: Leah Weller, Freedom

Boasting an unusually captivating sound, Leah Weller brings soul to the modern age with her stunning debut. Incorporating elements of Leona Lewis, early Adele, Amy Winehouse and Alesha Dixon, it’s clear the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree for the child of Paul Weller and Dee C. Lee.

Title track and album opener ‘Freedom’ sets an impressive tone, courtesy of its silky-smooth vocals and dreamy melodies. Magnetic ‘70s rhythms groove through ‘Wonder’, with ‘Pale Blue Sky’ oozing country soul, à la Faith Hill.

Other notable moments include the sultry air of ‘Dive In’: poignant, breathtaking vocals on ‘Call Me By Your Name’; the enigmatic, captivating ‘Unity’; and the rocking ‘Something Sacred’. There’s a convincing argument to be made that ‘Strength’ would feature on a 2022 remake of Austin Powers, additionally.

Swaying between downright danceable and solemn, Freedom is pure after-party music – with just enough jazz to convince you that extra glass of wine is a good idea.

9/10