Grace Cummings and Her Band - “Raglan"

SXSW 2022 - OEB Score: 9; Popularity Index: 6

Pairs Well With…Brandi Carlile, Lana Del Rey, Brittany Howard

Of all the SXSW artists on the roster so far, Grace Cummings has one of the most powerful vocals of all, collected on the just-released Storm Queen, the Australian artist’s sophomore full-length. The ‘storm’ descriptor is apt; Cummings’ instrument is loaded with texture and bolts through melodies with outsized passion and grace. While delivered over a minimal ballad like “Always New Days Always” or “Here Is The Rose”, Cummings lets her vocals float with classical influence, but gritted and dense like a veteran country-blues artist. More intense moments like opening plea “Heaven” or the building title track, Cummings is able to match that power with spirit and confidence. With so much constitution in her natural vocal tone, she truly elevates a folk-based foundation and makes all the whole of Storm Queen a rewarding listening front to back. (Kevin McStravick)