Abbie Bell and the High Ryes released their debut EP “Slow Burn” on December 10, it is out on all platforms now.. They are a band that I knew a little about, I had heard one of their earlier singles, but this is a chance to get better acquainted so to speak. I am sitting on a late night (delayed) train heading home and so am dipping into this release. I will first share the press release with you, but first I will briefly note how the accompanying band pics around a steam train made me smile. My late, much loved, father loved steam trains and I miss him so much at this time of year.
Abbie Bell and the High Ryes are: Ross (bass), Nathan (drums) and Abbie (lead singer/guitarist).
Speaking about the EP, Abbie Bell & The High Ryes state: “After months of writing, refining, and relentless dedication, we’re proud to finally unveil our debut EP – “Slow Burn.” This record is more than just a collection of songs; it’s the culmination of a journey that’s been simmering beneath the surface. “Slow Burn” represents the time it’s taken to reach this moment, not rushed, not forced, but fuelled by a fire that never went out. Each track has been carefully carved from its raw demo form, sculpted to showcase the most authentic version of The High Ryes. From the first chord to the final mix, we’ve poured ourselves into every detail, crafting a sonic experience that captures who we are and where we’re headed.”
‘Slow Burn’ encapsulates everything that the trio are about, whilst simultaneously showcasing their artistic growth and thirst for creating unique and heartfelt songs that strike a chord with fans and critics alike.
This is a debut offering that’s been long in the making, and you can really feel and hear that they have put in the effort to make this a soundtrack that truly embodies who Abbie Bell & The High Ryes are, and distinctly where they’re headed.
So let’s find out!
It has five songs and lasts just over 18 minutes.
“Like a Good Drink” is the opener. It has a strong lead vocal that rides at the top of the mix over the accompanying rhythm. It took me into a late night venue with the crowd gently swaying and raising a glass to the band. It’s a strong opener with a confident guitar break late in the track that I really liked.
“Heavy on the Hell Yeah” adds a bit of rock into the mix. It has touches of the South and bourbon, the moon shining on the lonely road. I liked this one, it got me wishing for my boots and a space to dance. A very good track, worth the admission price and at 2.33 it definitely does not overstay its welcome.
“Lost in a Small Town” is an acoustic, so the tone is intimate, more camp fire. It has a more dreamy folk quality, well crafted and with a sense of the rural – strumming your guitar in that small town.
“Wildfire” returns to a rocking Americana with plenty of emotion and feeling. Lyrically a great nod to country vibes with the pick up trucks and dance moves. I liked the drum sound here too, solid and strong and making us move with the beat. A strong EP number.
“No Souls” introduces some harmonica and is a soulful track, lamentable and with a touch of winter. A song for old souls in this colder climate.
Overall, Slow Burn feels exactly like its title suggests: carefully paced, thoughtfully assembled, and never in a hurry to shout for attention. As the band themselves put it, “not rushed, not forced, but fuelled by a fire that never went out” — “Slow Burn” smoulders steadily, offering a solid debut that hints at what Abbie Bell & The High Ryes are growing into.
The EP shows clear intent and a band that knows its aesthetic, particularly when they lean into their stronger, more confident Americana moments. There’s enough here to suggest promise and direction, and it really catches fire with “Heavy on the Hell Yeah.”
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You can stream music from Abbie Bell and the High Ryes here.
By Lorraine Foley
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