Singer-Songwriter Emilia Quinn seamlessly intertwines Americana, Blues, and Rock, creating a dynamic musical fusion that sets her apart as a true firecracker in the contemporary music scene. Her debut album, ‘Wanderlust & Breaking Rules’ is a sheer delight to listen to as meanders its way through a multi-genre journey held together by Quinn’s raw, honest writing and the binding force of her personality.
Breaking free from the conventional molds of modern Americana and Roots music, Quinn has carved out her distinctive niche, infusing genres with her unique spin. Her music effortlessly blends various influences, resulting in a sound that captivates audiences.
Quinn’s commanding vocals, spanning almost three octaves, serve as the driving force behind her storytelling prowess. Her songs, ranging from badass anthems to heartfelt ballads, delve deep into her soul. Onstage and in her records, she presents her musical narratives with astonishing honesty, leaving audiences mesmerized by her powerful vocals and musical finesse. The album opens with ‘River,’ a swampy, soulful southern gospel piece that sets the tone for the musical odyssey ahead. Quinn’s vocals, reminiscent of Appalachian mining songs, gradually build alongside bluesy guitar solos, creating a mesmerising experience reminiscent of a band like Delta Rae jamming with the UK’s very own Elles Bailey.
Elsewhere, ‘Wanderlust & Breaking Rules’ is a real mix of southern gospel, 70s Rolling Stones style riffola and heartfelt Blues/Folk/Country emotions. With rhythmic marching drums and more Appalachian mining song vibes, ‘In My Boots’ explores personality, characteristics, and fiery love. The song breaks into a bluesy, rocky solo, creating a New Orleans bar atmosphere whilst Quinn’s mantra, “A 6-foot-five attitude, but I stand five four in my boots,” resonates throughout. Maintaining those soulful vocals with a southern gospel edge, ‘Nothing to Lose’ unfolds as an acoustic-based anthem. The drums propel the song into a bluesy guitar solo, creating an uptempo climax that promises to be a live classic. Quinn’s gritty vocals shine here, revealing a rawer side to her artistry. That rawness peaks on the double whammy late-album punch of ‘Daddy’s Girl’ and ‘Rosary Beads.’ The former delves into personal territory, crafting a folk-leaning rock song about her father’s influence on her life and her experiences. The edgy, uptempo blues/rock vibe, coupled with Quinn’s introspective lyrics, creates a poignant reflection on familial relationships. It’s a powerful song built around an almost AC/DC-esque dirty guitar riff. ‘How can I be a daddy’s girl if I ain’t nothing like my daddy?’ Quinn asks, shining a light on a turbulent childhood in a vulnerable way. ‘Rosary Beads,’ meanwhile, offers a quiet, intimate acoustic moment where Quinn reflects on identity and societal expectations. Defying the rules and writing her own script, Quinn delivers a thoughtful, intelligent exploration of her life & aspirations set against a tender, melodic backdrop.
‘Wanderlust & Breaking Rules’ isn’t all heartfelt vulnerability, however, this girl sure knows how to rock when she wants to! ‘Magpie’ bristles with a 70s Rolling Stones-inspired guitar riff, as Quinn weaves a tale of superstition and strength. With rock vibes and bombastic notes, the track pays tribute to her wife, (‘she is beauty, she is grace… and if you step out of line, she’ll put you in her place’) exuding the spirit of classic rock icons like The Rolling Stones and Thunder with a smattering of those Elles Bailey vibes again. ‘Mr Shame,’ meanwhile, hits with more Rolling Stones-esque vibes and guitar riffs enhanced by some cracking gospel backing vocals as Quinn sings about her own big ambitions and the men holding her back. Think 70s rock, a healthy amount of blues and some bombastic drums, making this song another potential live classic to add into her live set whilst in ‘On the Run’ Quinn’s vocals draws listeners into an engaging and cinematic tale of failure & redemption. Marked by a compelling plea, “I’ve got a target on my back, now, God save my soul,’ this song really highlights the powerful nature of Quinn’s storytelling ability.
Two ballads round off ‘Wanderlust & Breaking Rules’ in fine style. ‘Mountains’ is a big piano ballad that showcases the strength and nuance in Quinn’s vocals. This tender, mature song explores doubts, faith, resilience, and strength, providing a song that could act as a mid-set change of pace or a powerful encore before a resounding finish to her live shows whilst album closer ‘Backroads’ opens up in classic ‘Nights in White Satin’ mood, evoking a 70s ambiance via the use of some organ & keys. The track navigates resilience, strength, and the less-traveled paths, culminating in an 80s rock guitar solo reminiscent of someone like Richie Sambora. (Bon Jovi) ‘Backroads’ pays homage to the creative experimentation of bands like Queen and serves as an emotive and powerful way to close down what is a delightful journey full of musical surprises and twists and turns.
‘Wanderlust & Breaking Rules’ is an authentic and multifaceted journey through Emilia Quinn’s musical universe, showcasing her ability to seamlessly blend genres while delivering powerful narratives. Each track stands as a testament to Quinn’s vocal prowess, lyrical depth, and unwavering commitment to breaking musical boundaries.
Tracklist: 1. River 2. Magpie 3. Nothing to Lose 4. Mr Shame 5. In My Boots 6. Mountains 7. On the Run 8. Daddy’s Girl 9. Rosary Beads 10. Backroads Record Label: W21 Records Release Date: November 17th Buy ‘Wanderlust & Breaking Rules’ right here.
