Leif Vollebekk - “Blood Brother”

SXSW 2020 - OEB Score: 9; Popularity Index: 7

Pairs Well With…James Vincent McMorrow, Patrick Watson, Paolo Nutini

Leif Vollebekk’s fourth record New Ways slipped below the radar when released last fall and it’s worth digging up heading into 2020 to hear the Canadian folk-pop artist smoothly evolve as a songwriting and performer. Hints of R&B melodies seep into Vollebekk’s soulful sound, leaning on piano-pop balladry to weave his emotive tales. It’s a trip from his Americana foundations, but still features Vollebekk’s dynamic voice front and center to tug deeply at the heartstrings. (Kevin McStravick) 

2014 Review: For three years running, I’ve been high on Canadian singer-songwriter Leif Vollebekk, but it’s after repeated listens of 2013’s North Americana that his OEB score demands to be pressed up to a “10”. Front to back, Vollebekk has delivered an adventurous, lyrical take on modern folk. The music and vocals are stunning throughout, just so meticulous and note-perfect. I hope that somehow this record finds it’s way to so many more ears – Leif Vollebekk’s gift is something truly special.