This Too Shall Light by Amy Helm

Amy Helm may claim some measure of fame from her father, The Band’s Levon Helm, but the singer-songwriter has never had to exist in his shadow. Following her acclaimed 2015 solo debut, *Didn’t It Rain*, her sophomore effort continues showcasing her expansive, bluesy vocals. Produced by Joe Henry (Bonnie Raitt, Billy Bragg), the album traverses originals and covers, like The Milk Carton Kids’ “Michigan,” Allen Toussaint’s “Freedom for the Stallion,” and Robbie Robertson’s “The Stones I Throw.” With standouts like the title track, written by Hiss Golden Messenger and thrumming with a low-throated organ, Helm’s resilience finds reinforcement from gospel-inspired moments that help her wait out storms overhead.

This Too Shall Light, due September 21, 2018 on Yep Roc Records, comprises 10 songs produced by Grammy-winning producer and songwriter Joe Henry. Helm left her home and comfort zone of Woodstock, NY, choosing to record in Los Angeles within the confines of just a four-day window. The musicians were directed not to overthink the songs, and Helm herself barely performed any of the selections while leading up to the recording. As a result, the sessions forced fast musical trust among the collaborators and yielded the vibrant instrumental improvisations heard throughout This Too Shall Light.

This Too Shall Light, Amy Helm's sophomore solo album, is a logical progression from 2015's excellent Didn't It Rain (recorded after three dynamite albums with Olabelle), but it's also a marked departure.

7 / 10

In the process of recording This Too Shall Light, Amy Helm launched out of her comfort zone. Pushed by her producer Joe Henry (Joan Baez, Bi...