An Awakening in Americana: A Review of Zoey Tess’s stunning debut Album, "There’s Gonna Be a Reckoning."
- 16 hours ago
- 2 min read
Americana and folk music have always served as a mirror held up to society, and right now, that reflection is complicated. Enter singer songwriter Zoey Tess, whose stunning debut album, There’s Gonna Be a Reckoning, arrived yesterday. This 7 track journey pulls no punches, diving headfirst into the current political climate and the deep divides so often fracturing the world today. But Tess doesn't just preach she wraps these incredibly heavy, vital themes in profound original artistry and soul stirring musicianship.
The album opens with "Knocking at Your Front Door," a beautifully relatable and emotional unveiling that stands out as the most heavy hitting, rock-driven track on the album. Infused with a robust folk rock energy, the deeply poetic lyrics drive over a weighty, dynamic instrumental backdrop that immediately pulls you into Tess's world. It serves as the perfect, powerful primer, flowing effortlessly into the title track, "There's Gonna Be A Reckoning," and the evocative "You Just Missed Him." On these tracks, the vibrant acoustic guitar flares really shine, providing the perfect foundation for what is undeniably Zoey's impressive vocal prowess. You can hear the conviction in every single note she sings
As the record unfolds, it becomes a masterclass in dynamic storytelling. A special mention has to go to "All of the Beautiful things," which leans into a gorgeous, aching piano backdrop that lingers in the soul long after the track ends. From there, Tess treats us to "Stable Ground," tapping into classic Country Ballad tones before exploding into a hard-hitting, fiercely addictive chorus that you'll be singing to yourself for days.
Just when you think you have the album's tempo figured out, "Children of the USA" injects a welcome, upbeat energy into the mix, driving home its poignant message with foot-tapping momentum. To close out this powerful collection, Zoey Tess delivers a breathtaking rendition of Townes Van Zandt’s "Fare Thee Well Miss Carousel." As the only cover on an otherwise entirely self penned record, it feels like a deliberate, reverent nod to the folk legends of the past, beautifully anchoring the project.
A project this raw and important requires the right hands to shape it, and the liner notes here read like a music lover's dream. Recorded at the legendary Clubhouse Studio in Rhinebeck, New York, with recording engineer Paul Antonell (Natalie Merchant, Shawn Mendes), and meticulously produced by Spencer Hattendorf who worked closely with Tess from the early demo stages to assemble a stellar band the sonic quality is undeniable. The addition of sweeping strings by Dave Eggar (Coldplay, Evanescence) on two of the tracks elevates the emotion to cinematic heights. Mixed by Mario McNulty (David Bowie, Prince) and mastered by Chris Gehringer (St. Vincent, Lana Del Rey), the final product sounds as world class as its message is vital.
There’s Gonna Be a Reckoning is far more than just a debut for Zoey Tess; it’s a stunning body of work that asks hard questions about American identity, all while delivering top tier acoustic instrumentation and vocals. If you're looking for music with a pulse, a conscience, and serious heart, do not miss this record.
Listen to the full album on all platforms here:
Follow Zoey here: https://www.instagram.com/zoeytess
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