Debut albums are meant to declare who someone is as an artist and an individual. Willow Avalon’s first, Southern Belle Raisin’ Hell, is a collection of songs boldly paving her own path in a growing field of women in country music. Taking a bluegrass and southern rock-inspired approach, she’s not as polished around the edges as Lainey Wilson or Megan Moroney. Her previous EP, Stranger, laid the groundwork for this album to tell more stories and take more risks sonically. However, it’s her voice that sets her apart from most. She has a soft, versatile tone with impressive range, occasionally incorporating a distinctive yodel that sets her apart.
Storytelling is at the forefront of the project, with Avalon telling stories about the experiences that have shaped her into the singer and artist she is today. “Country Never Leaves” is a track about leaving home and moving on to restart your life, but you never forget the factors that molded your personality. Written by Avalon and frequent collaborator Tofer Brown, they explain how people always come back to the place they first called home. While it’s not an original concept or filled with unique tropes, it is a strong introduction to Avalon and her individuality. “Hey There, Dolly” is a light-hearted tribute to one of her biggest musical influences, Dolly Parton. With all the whimsical, lyrical humor of a classic Parton song, Avalon compares her life to the country music legend despite having never met her.
In addition to songs about her hometown, unique love songs focus on self-discovery and independence. “Damned” is an interesting tune thematically because she’s struggling with the decision to leave a man, but no matter which way the situation plays out in her head, it will always end up with someone being hurt. No matter how much she plans it out or tries to repair the relationship, it will only prolong the suffering of the split. This is a unique song because, as the listener, we don’t always get to see the decision-making behind a breakup. Rather, it’s the aftermath of it or leading up to it.
“The Actor” is another track about a failed relationship and the facade that someone can put up, and you’ll never really get to know the person. The song brings a sense of personal shame to the forefront, capturing the regret and self-pity of not seeing through the act he was putting on. The production here is more Southern rock inspired by an anthemic guitar riff during the bridge, symbolizing moving on while acknowledging her mistakes. It elevates the song into more of an anthem and declares to the world Willow Avalon is very much her own artist.
From top to bottom, the album is cohesive and full of stories. It gives a strong glimpse into Avalon’s life experiences. She wrote and produced the entire project with a consistent team of JR Atkins, Tofer Brown, and herself. Having such a tight-knit creative group for the album bodes well, as it’s not spinning in multiple directions. All 14 tracks feel on-brand for her, and nothing feels out of place.
Fans of Noelline Hoffman will appreciate how soft and delicate Avalon’s voice is, but her Appalachian undertones are what sets her apart. She signed with Atlantic Records; no one with her sound received mainstream attention. Her vibrato is second to none when she holds notes for an extended time. The album’s only feature is the song “Yodelayheewho” with Maggie Antone. As the title suggests, it highlights Avalon’s yodeling ability without being overbearing or irritating—a risk for anyone who hasn’t mastered the skill. It’s quite impressive how her voice has developed, with her career still in its infancy. She can combine her phenomenal falsetto with hints of yodeling for a stellar and unique sound.
Fiddle and steel guitar run throughout the album, providing a traditional sound. Produced by Atkins, Brown, and Avalon, no element overpowers another, with each song feeling very balanced, providing the listener with a very easy and calming listening experience. At a certain point towards the end of the record, tracks blend together, harming individual songs’ ability to get the recognition they deserve. However, some fans will appreciate it because it feels like a cohesive and concise project.
Lainey Wilson leans into a distinctly Western sound, Megan Moroney dominates contemporary country, and Ella Langley holds strong with her grunge and rock-inspired style. Meanwhile, Willow Avalon is staking her claim in Appalachian and bluegrass country infused with the sass of southern rock. As a debut album, it does a phenomenal job of detailing who she is as an individual. Going forward, Avalon should focus on more world-building in her songs and develop strong characters in her songs like “The Actor.” With a solid foundation already in place, Avalon has the potential to carve out a lasting legacy in the country music landscape by further refining her storytelling and unique style.
