Andy Evans - Miracle (Self-Released)

Andy Evans is a relatively new singer/songwriter raised in Virginia and now based in Texas, and he is set to release his new full-length Miracle. The album is a quirky and inspired take on blues and folk, and it’s the sense of individuality and personality Evans injects into it that makes it so distinctive from the herd. The song structures and progressions themselves are somewhat typical, but it’s his unique approach and the light touches he brings to it that cocoons the recordings in something completely of itself.

Growing up with the dusty roots of country and gospel, there is a certain Southern Gothic feel to Evans sound. On “45,” the song is laced with chiming, Byrds-like lead breaks that instantly add a layer of stormy melancholia, and the rumbling guitars on “Judas” are nothing short of murderous. But it’s not all dark and broody. “Shape of Love” is a fantastic slice of bluesy garage rock with the surprising addition of horns, and the title track, “Miracle,” is modern blue-eyed soul in its purest and sweetest form. For a critical first statement, Evans hits in clean out of the park with a sound instantly identifiable. Miracle is out January 26th.