Laura Cox defies traditional blues-rock norms
At the beginning of her YouTube journey in 2006, Laura Cox had no grand plan in mind when she started posting classic rock covers. Being a teenager, it was all just about having fun. Surprisingly, she quickly garnered millions of views, leading her to reflect on the spontaneity and carefree attitude that resonated with her audience. Fast forward to her mid-twenties, and this Anglo-French musician created her band, producing albums that showcased her distinctive vocal prowess, right-handed guitar playing as a lefty, and evolving songwriting skills. With noteworthy influences like Joe Bonamassa, Mark Knopfler, and Angus Young, Cox’s music carried traces of these guitar legends across her records.
For her latest album, “Trouble Coming,” Cox took a new direction by teaming up with the No Money Kids, a French duo often likened to the Black Keys. The collaborative effort led to a breakthrough sound that retained a blues rock foundation while incorporating a lo-fi garage feel. Tracks like “No Need to Try Harder” and “Do I Have Your Attention” maintained the essence of blues rock but with a raw, distorted edge not previously explored by Cox. On the title track, “Trouble Coming,” Cox defied conventional song structures, opting for moody, tension-filled atmospheres complemented by swampy vamping and haunting slide guitar work instead of traditional lead solos.
In describing her bold approach to this album, Cox admitted that she deliberately avoided inserting guitar solos when she felt the composition was compelling enough without them. Even though she has an undeniable love for playing the guitar, Cox recognized the importance of serving the song’s narrative and mood over showcasing excessive soloing. This commitment to enhancing the music’s essence rather than prioritizing technical flair revealed Cox’s growth as an artist who values substance over style.
While her roots may lie in classic rock covers and subsequent blues rock band output, Laura Cox’s willingness to experiment and evolve reflects an artist unafraid to defy expectations. By collaborating with fresh talents and embracing unconventional song structures, Cox has demonstrated a maturity and versatility that solidify her position as a rising star in the rock music scene. Her openness to new sounds and willingness to challenge established norms hint at an exciting future filled with innovation and exploration, one that keeps fans eagerly anticipating each new musical endeavor. As Laura Cox blazes a trail through the music industry, her journey serves as a testament to the power of creativity, authenticity, and a relentless drive to reinvent oneself in pursuit of artistic excellence.