Lindi Ortega – Little Red Boots

Every once in a while though a singer will come along who will bring a country vibe to the UK mainstream – Shania Twain and LeAnn Rimes being prime examples of artists who have crossed the genre divide.

Now it is Linda Ortega’s time.  Like the aforementioned Shania Twain she does not have the typical country background, however with a voice like this she could realistically have been a regular performer on the Grand Old Opry. Her style is similar to Dolly Parton with wailed asides in her songs and a plethora of instrumentation associated with the genre – modern day bluegrass blues and country.

Already a seasoned performer in her hometown of Toronto, Ortega has come to the attention of a UK based audience due to her supporting slot with Brandon Flowers of The Killers on his recent solo shows. Her debut UK release Little Red Boots is due October 24^th and is altogether an ambitious album in the sense that this isn’t a notable genus in today’s music scene.

Songs such as Little Lie, When The Stars Align and titular track Little Red Boots show the various shades that Ortega can offer.  They also highlight the skill, dexterity and scope she has in understanding the genre as she traverses beautifully through the album. In true country tradition, the songs tell a story.  Awareness of the magic that can be found in the smallest and seemingly most unimportant of stories is a staple skill which Ortega manages succinctly. She has pain and heartbreak perfected as she sings ‘Ever since he left I’ve felt that love is a disease, I’m dying of another broken heart. And even if there were a cure I could not be saved I’m dying of another broken heart’ you are privy to a talent for clever turns of phrase.

Country pop has a new face and that is the face of Lindi Ortega. This is an impressive debut that is littered with great tracks.

www.lindiortega.ca