Janet Devlin has carved out a pathway as an unlikely country star, transitioning from her Irish folk roots to the sweeping soundscapes of Nashville. After breakthrough single ‘Emotional Rodeo’, a triumphant anthem on re-owning mental health struggles, hit No.4 on the UK iTunes Country Chart, she has since gone on to release an impressive cascade of singles that evoke her versatility and commitment to her new country-rock persona. This includes the tender, Fleetwood Mac-inspired ‘Red Flag’, which was recently hailed as BBC Radio 2’s Track Of The Week.
As the year comes to a close, the artist’s long-awaited third album ‘Emotional Rodeo’ has finally arrived – and it was certainly worth the wait. Whilst showcasing previously released, playful hits such as the gender role-defying ‘Daddy’ and the humorous ‘Country Singer’, listeners can now delve deeper into an enchanting world of lush instrumentation, gratingly honest lyrics, and an empowering sense of self-worth that will resonate strongly.
With this bold and beautiful album, Devlin seems to have truly discovered her unique voice. Striking a pleasant balance between emotive, acoustic ballads and uptempo hits, the artist explores self-reflection, and ultimately, what she wants from life. Penned with unwavering wit, each track is rooted in Devlin’s personal experiences, from dealing with narcissistic partners and navigating her challenges with BPD to accepting realistic ‘red flags’ from future relationships.
Album tracks such as ‘Cigarette Sweets’, ‘Back To My Senses’, ‘Whiskey On My Breath’ and ‘Burden’ portray Devlin at her most intimate, blending heartfelt piano with earthy, acoustic arrangement. The results are poignant and nostalgic, whilst the quirky ‘Catfishin’ oozes with personality and a retro prominent rock’n’roll attitude.
‘Funeral For My Best Friend’ is electric guitar-heavy and armed with dramatics, preceded by the harmonic ‘Ghosted’, which mirrors a traditional country-rock jig. Throughout, there is never a dull moment – it’s evident that Devlin has found her musical footing, and she’s not shying away from embracing her true self. Album closer ‘The Problem Is Me’ showcases her impressive melodic sensibilities and a heartstopping vocal performance, rounding the collection of songs on an exquisitely introspective note.
‘Emotional Rodeo’ was recorded at the iconic Martina McBride’s Blackbird Studio in Nashville with esteemed producer Roo Walker, assembling a distinguished ensemble of legendary country musicians to solidify Devlin’s authentic take on the genre. This includes Charlie McCoy (Bob Dylan, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison, Loretta Lynn) and Rob McNelley (Bob Seger, Carrie Underwood, Dolly Parton, Keith Urban), contributing individually to the album’s pivotal core.
Janet Devlin launched ‘Emotional Rodeo’ at The Hoxton Underbelly, London, performing the album in its entirety. You can stream and download ‘Emotional Rodeo’ here.
