Afrigather 
New Orleans-born and bred, Americana-soul singer-songwriter Jenn Howard drops her second album, Valiant Ladies, narrating an intimate, weak journey of self-discovery.
Howard explains, “This physique of labor showcases what it was like for me to be a lady looking out to find myself once more after shedding footing in my hopes and desires.”
Between the ages of 16-21, Howard was co-founder, co-songwriter, and vocalist of Venture NIM, releasing three albums with the group that featured three future members of The Nationwide. Howard’s sound blends components of nation, funk, folks, blues, jazz, and indie-rock into lush music dripping with beaucoup swagger.
Encompassing 10 tracks, Valiant Ladies begins with “Higher Than You Assume,” touring on a funk-lite rhythm topped by cool brass accents and Howard’s evocative voice, which, when it shifts right into a scrumptious, rasping growl, sends shivers up listeners’ backbone.
Highlights on the album embrace “Maintain On,” rolling out on a swish, melancholic piano as Howard’s tender vocals imbue the lyrics with hints of gospel blues. When the backing harmonies enter, the tune takes on wealthy, radiant tones, concurrently wistful and nostalgic.
“Instances we spent and instances value spending / Right here’s to us let’s not overlook it / Time to reside and let go let it / Instances like this are unending.”
A private favourite due to its fats, rolling bassline and braying brass, “Needed” merges hints of soul, blues, and nation into an undulating tune, swaying on buttery leitmotifs.
With its nasty guitar intro, low and soiled, “Pocket Fox” conjures up ideas of ZZ High – simmering flavors of scowling blues transporting Howard’s sensuous voice, exuding luxurious wails and nuanced timbres.
Arguably the most effective monitor on the album, “I Can’t Name” pushes out swanky savors of soul and rock, whereas Howard’s voice imbues the lyrics with pressing, longing timbres.
“We waltz in taking part in playing cards / You smile and win awards / You win followers and play the half / Nicely, Goddamn that’s a very good begin / I can’t name, can’t name, I can’t name.”
One other gem, “The place’d You Go” showcases the vary and yummy shades of Howard’s expressive voice.
As an entire, Valiant Ladies is a grand album, drenched within the nonpareil voice of Jenn Howard, who completely is aware of the best way to sing.
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