A Boot And A Shoe
Omnivore, 2024
9/10
This 10th album from the singer-songwriter Sam Phillips was originally released in 2004, and here it lives again for the first time on vinyl and with new liner notes from Phillips.
“How To Quite” starts the listen with playful acoustic guitar alongside well timed drums, as Phillips’ distinct voice makes for an animated folk climate, and “All Night” follows with a hint of rhythm amid the frisky drums and fluid strumming.
Moving into the middle, “Red Silk Five” emits much beauty and melody via the intricate guitar and expressive singing, while “Infiltration” is quite pretty, intimate and showcases the lovely singing amid strategic guitar and gorgeous strings courtesy of the Section Quartet.
Landing close to the end, the album’s best, “If I Could Write”, blends the strings and guitar with a unique poeticism, and “One Day Late” exits with the inviting singing and colorful musicianship that’s charming and memorable.
Even if you don’t recognize the name, you’ve likely heard Phillips’ work as she’s soundtracked plenty of TV shows, and with an all star cast including T BoneBurnett, Marc Ribot (Tom Waits, Elvis Costello), Mike Elizondo (Fiona Apple, Eminem), and legendary drummer Jim Keltner, this reissue is a great way to become acquainted with some under appreciated pop/rock/folk.
Travels well with: Grant-Lee Phillips- All That You Can Dream; Rufus Wainwright- Rufus Does Judy At Capitol Studios