Wonder Women of Country – Willis, Carper, Leigh

In 1987, Dolly Parton, Emmylou Harris and Linda Ronstadt joined forces to release their flawless album, Trio. The combination of a delicately curated tracklist, along with the unification of their treasured voices, has stood the test of time as the album was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2020.

With their debut EP as a trio, The Wonder Women of Country conjure this same kind of preternatural occurrence. Across six songs, Kelly Willis, Melissa Carper and Brennen Leigh draw from the ample depths of their own celebrated artistry. Here, their expert musicianship and seamless commitment to one another result in pure country magic.

Recorded at Bismeaux on the Hill in Austin, Texas, the collection features original material along with a gorgeous rendering of John Prine’s ‘I Have Met My Love Today.’ Leigh sparkles on the tropical delight ‘Fly Ya to Hawaii’, as she urges a hesitant lover to join her on holiday. Her honey-coated ploys are practically irresistible when buoyed by the added dimension of yodel harmonies.

Meanwhile, ‘Another Broken Heart’ gives further testament to why Willis remains one of the best voices in country music. Layered with longing and tender emotion, it’s a tear-inducing cut that sounds reminiscent of her groundbreaking album, What I Deserve. Similarly, Carper’s excellent classic, ‘Won’t Be Worried Long,’ dances into the ether with her one-of-a-kind voice and signature songwriting abilities on full display.

Willis, Carper and Leigh rightfully hold the torch that Parton, Harris and Rondstandt lit. The only complaint for the collection is the necessity for more, but isn’t that the plight of super heroes? Their work is never done.

9/10

Wonder Women of Country’s debut project, Willis, Carper, Leigh, is available March 15 via Bismeaux Records.

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