A 14-track collection that puts Lisa Bouchelle’s voice front and centre, supported by Amanda Shires’ violin on five cuts, an eclectic set of collaborators, and production shared between Bouchelle, Hal B. Selzer and Stephen DeAcutis. Americana UK scores it 8/10.
Bouchelle’s vocals are the defining element across 14 tracks, blending country soul and gospel with power and clarity.
Amanda Shires contributes violin on five tracks, including the two openers, shaping the album’s country-soul texture.
The album mixes unexpected styles—acapella, funk, retro synth Motown backing—and features notable session players.
# Quick overview Lisa Bouchelle's Vandals, Thieves and Lovers is presented as a country-soul collection of 14 tracks that foregrounds her voice. The Americana UK review highlights a range of styles across the record—country soul, gospel, funk and some retro-pop touches—while pointing to a strong roster of collaborators and consistent production values. The reviewer gives the album an 8/10.
# What stands out Bouchelle's vocals are described as impassioned, clear and both powerful and controlled. That vocal presence is the through-line: every track is arranged so her singing sits at the front of the mix.
Amanda Shires appears on violin on five songs, including the two openers. Her parts are flagged as tasteful additions that help define the album's country-soul mood.
# Notable tracks and moments
# Personnel and production
Production is credited to Hal B. Selzer, Stephen DeAcutis and Lisa Bouchelle. The reviewer calls the production "top notch throughout."
# What the review concludes The record is characterized as a strong blend of country soul, funk and gospel, carried by Bouchelle's exceptional vocals and supported by high-quality musicianship across the band. Americana UK's review score is 8/10.
# Practical takeaway for listeners If you prioritize vocal-led Americana with a mix of country, soul and occasional stylistic detours (a capella, funk, retro-soul), this album is positioned as worth hearing. The participation of Amanda Shires and several established session players suggests a polished, varied listening experience rather than a lo-fi singer-songwriter set.
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