7/10

After the praise and success that they received for their fourth full-length 'Venom & Faith' in 2018, which earned the duo a GRAMMY nomination as well as spots across numerous charts around the world, sisterly duo Rebecca and Megan Lovell aka Larkin Poe knew that when it came to delivering a follow-up, they would have to push their sound further than they ever done before. Thankfully these last few years have been filled with international tours and ventures, which have inspired the pair to create a more worldwide appeal to their core sound of the American South as they return with their versatile fifth studio album 'Self Made Man'.

From the very start, 'Self Made Man' cements itself as a true slice of Americana. With its jangled guitars and pounding rhythm, the Nashville-based outfit look to bring a more radio-friendly and eclectic direction to their blues-rock aesthetic, making for a very fun and upbeat listen throughout. But while the style of music is catchy at almost every turn, their lyrical content also keeps itself in the positive realm. Self-described as the most uplifting record they have ever written, this new collection is less about their own personal struggles, but focuses on the motivation that brings you out of the other side, creating a wonderfully fulfilling release.

And while it is not the gloriously glossy and accessible record it sounds on paper, 'Self Made Man' still manages to fill itself with acres of heart and soul throughout its 35-minute runtime. In all, this new album is one of their most vibrant and compelling to date, keeping its head above the water throughout and giving us a great slice of that Tennessee sound.