Laura Chavez’s “My Voice” Reviewed – Americana Highways

Chavez’s instrumental album, “My Voice,” is a masterpiece that reflects her musical origins, talent, and influences. The record, a combination of covers and originals, is not just a display of technical skill but a deep dive into the nuances of touch, tone, and style that captivates listeners.

Filmed in Germany, the album is a collaboration between Chavez and label owner Thomas Ruf, with Chavez playing every guitar part herself. She even introduces an electric nylon-string guitar to add a unique, warm, and glassy timbre to the mix. Lea Worms contributes with organ and piano, Tomek Germann on bass, Marty Dodson, and Denis Palatin on drums, and Antonio Econom on percussion. The structure of the album resembles chapters in a book, with five covers and five original tracks.

Starting strong with a reimagined version of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s “Born on the Bayou,” Chavez pays homage to her father’s love for CCR while adding her own up-tempo twist to the iconic melody. She further showcases her Southern California roots-rock style on tracks like “So Long Baby Goodbye,” infusing her clean and pointed sound to the Blasters’ classic tune.

One standout track is “Chinese Checkers,” originally by Booker T. & The MGs, where Chavez seamlessly blends Booker T.’s organ parts into her guitar playing, creating a dynamic and captivating rendition. However, the emotional centerpiece of the album is “La Llorona,” a slow blues piece inspired by Mexican folklore, highlighting Chavez’s ability to infuse emotion and narrative into her music.

The five original tracks on the album showcase the breadth of Chavez’s stylistic range, from straight-ahead rock to Tex-Mex influences. Tracks like “Wanderer” simmer with intensity before unfolding into a melodic climax, showcasing Chavez’s patience and fearlessness in her playing. “Mamba Negra” and “Napa Street” emphasize groove and flair, with Chavez’s solo on the latter serving as a scorching highlight of her technical prowess.

“My Voice” ultimately solidifies Laura Chavez’s reputation as a guitar virtuoso, showcasing her unparalleled ability to shape and articulate her musical ideas through her instrument. Whether paying tribute to her influences or exploring her own creative voice, Chavez’s album is a testament to her extraordinary talent and artistry.