Canadian singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Leif Vollebekk releases his latest LP, Revelation, via Secret City Records. The 11 tracks on Vollebekk’s ‘Revelation’ combine narrative lyrics and many one-take lead vocal performances with cinematic arrangements, gorgeous sonics, well-placed space and lush orchestration. Self-produced and with piano, guitar, bass, B3 organ, harmonica, accordion and Moog synthesiser played by Leif, supporting cast includes legendary drummer Jim Keltner, steel guitarist Cindy Cashdollar (Bob Dylan, Van Morrison and Rod Stewart), and bassist Shahzad Ismaily...

It's very rare that I play a new album and am almost instantly smitten with it. Leif Vollebekk's Revelation is one that I know I'll be playing for years to come. The use of an orchestra takes a solid collection of songs and elevates it into the stratosphere.

Whilst I enjoyed all 11 songs (53 min, 55 sec), I was particularly drawn to 'Rock and Roll', 'Surfer's Journal', 'Elijah Rose', 'Till I See You Again' and 'Sunset Boulevard Expedition', from the first play through. In fact, these are tracks I've added to my "favourites" playlist.

It feels like a very personal, intimate reflection of the artist's vulnerabilities. It's moving, rich and incredibly deep, with plenty of earworms to ensure that you are humming at least a handful of tracks for days.

A wonderfully produced collection of soulful, timeless classic songs.

10

Nick Smithson