Album Review

Phantom Limb – Phantom Limb

• 26th Nov 2009

Gospel meets soul with tinges of country and blues in this interestingly different debut album. But what really makes it stand out is the voice of lead singer Yolanda Quartey, who demonstrates tremendous range, power and emotion in her vocals. Names like Etta James and Aretha Franklin have been used in comparison, but she has a talent that really defies comparison.

The album is a little uneven, with several tracks sounding over long. But the highlights more than make up for this. Very simply, where Quartey is given the chance to shine she takes it, at times sultry and brooding, yet also soaring and dominating. And she has some very good musicians backing her too.

The opening Don’t Say A Word, is a warm and soul tinged gospel song with some lovely piano and guitar backing. The sparse country sounds of My Love Has Gone contrast nicely, giving a counterpoint to the more expressive tracks. Draw The Line is an up tempo offering with vocals that make the hairs on your neck stand up, such is the excellence of their delivery. And the closing eight minute epic The Hard Way blends piano and lap steel before building to a climax that leaves you breathless and immediately reaching for the repeat button to start the album over.

Phantom Limb are playing a number of dates across the UK in December. On the basis of this album, their live shows should be well worth attending.