I’ll Follow You is the fifth studio release by Oakley Hall. The band, who are named after the American author, can produce an excellent rock album. Oakley Hall was formed in New York, though most of the group’s current and previous members are from all around the United States. A Bluegrass and country as well as more modern Country-Rock bands influence can be heard throughout their newest release. Think My Morning Jacket with both a female and a male vocalist, and add a little more country. Banjo and mandolin are both utilized to great effect. The album opens with the dreamy ‘Marine Life.’ The vocals, done by Patrick Sullivan, are as clear as a bell, and shine through on this track. ‘No Dreams,’ to put it simply, rocks. I was reminded of the Sweet Oblivion era of the Screaming Trees, which may surprise some readers. The title track is laid back with clean guitars and pretty vocal harmonies. If you’re interested in the more country sound, ‘Rue the Blues’ will probably stand out for you. Mandolin and acoustic guitar give it an old-timey feel, but the electric guitar work adds quite a bit of fullness to the track. ‘Angela,’ a sweet ballad sung by Rachel Cox, has a very nice slide guitar solo. The album ends with ‘Take My Hands, We’re Free.’ Haunting vocals often found in bluegrass penetrate the track, which is rife with banjo and mandolin plucking. The album as a whole is a very solidly put together piece of work. The production is very clean and the undistorted instruments come through the feedback with much clarity. Great Job, Oakley Hall!
