“Purgatory Road” is the title track off the latest album from singer-songwriter Jennifer Silva who’s got the perfect voice for it. The vintage blue-eyed soul song is an exhibition in writing from the heart and singing from the soul.
“Purgatory Road” is a metaphor for the place we all come upon in our lives where we suffer the consequences of our actions – “All the devils/It’s where they grow old.” Jennifer Silva sings with the conviction of a vocalist 30 years her senior that gives even deeper meaning to her words. There’s something about Silva’s voice that compels you to listen closely when she speaks. Her singing is at the same time soothing and head-turning, harnessing a power and warmth similar to Joss Stone but, dare I say, more commanding. Throughout the entire track she is patiently and masterfully building towards an imminent climax. When that anticipated moment arrives and she finally lets loose, the payoff is huge. This song could easily be 10 minutes long, and even then it’d be too short.
The production here really nails the vintage vibe of this song, and the band gives Silva plenty of room to speak her piece. Guitar, bass, and drums elegantly support a short, piano-led intro riff that is heavy enough to sink a ship and all very Raconteurs-esque. The playing throughout the rest of the song is tastefully sparse, eventually adding organ, background singers, and lead guitar though still leaving plenty of blanks for Silva to fill.
Jennifer Silva is an incredibly talented singer and songwriter whose latest album, Purgatory Road, will be one you’ll want to keep an eye out for.
Written by Tim Clark
FOLLOW JENNIFER SILVA:
