Ola Podrida - Belly Of The Lion

David Wingo’s sophomore release under the moniker Ola Podrida navigates a familiar path through the American folk of Iron And Wine or Sufjan Stevens, setting itself apart from these peers with understated poetical lyricism.

Hailing from Texas, Wingo evokes the torn emotions of a claustrophobic rural existence as seen through adolescent eyes, but without ever straying into sentimentalism. ‘Donkey’, the pick of the pride, is a triumph, its upwards melodic march to trumpet fanfares demonstrative of Wingo’s superlative ear for orchestration.

Though not consistent enough to dazzle, ‘Belly Of The Lion’ nonetheless enchants with subtle artistry.

6/10

Words by Hazel Sheffield