Alela Diane has a naturally enigmatic presence that is reflected in her voice, which is one part Joan Beaz to two parts Stevie Nicks with a hint of Joni Mitchell. That being said, her sound is certainly all her own; innocent yet broken in all the right places. She and her band Wild Divine, staffed with husband Tom Bevitori and father Tom Menig on guitars, brought a haunting folk-influenced cloudy mood to the Echo.
The constant guitar ostinatos that back up Alela’s mysterious and world weary lyrics do little more than give her a canvas to paint on, but it is enough to transport you on a very American roadtrip through the forgotten structures of the working class. One wonders what would happen if she ventured out of her vocal comfort zone now and then. Her red lips and sultry New England schoolteacher looks make you want to listen. But do not be fooled. This is no guitar strumming folk chick in florals and beads. Under the billowy trance is a spine of steel.
Alela and Wild Divine have been recently announced as the main support act for the Fleet Foxes during their July Stateside dates. Judging from what I heard, they will make a hypnotic pairing, with both bands having the power to put you in a wistful, mellow and mildly romantic mood. Perfect summer concert fare.
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