Album Review: Salty

Salty is the debut album of Taranaki-based quartet Betsy and The Reckless. I’ve seen their style described as both “a fusion of reggae and soul”, and “an RnB twist on Kiwi roots”, but even that doesn’t completely sum up this glorious musical melting pot. This is one of those fantastic albums where every song has its own unique character, showing a broad and strong range of differing musical influences.

Betsy Knox, who founded the band in 2020, has a wonderfully timeless voice. At times smoky and slinky, others bold and brassy, Betsy has a magnificent range, from vulnerable to victorious. Salty starts off with the sultry My Baby Don’t Know, a perfect example of the ‘reggae/soul fusion’ description, and a tasty guitar solo too. Crazy Rager brought Amy Winehouse to mind, with a sassy soulful bounce. A slightly more mellow track follows, Blank Phone a sweetly reflective number both poignant and relatable.

The first thing that came to mind with You’re A Vibe (Can’t Explain It) was a comparison to Alicia Keys, with a particularly passionate and dynamic vocal performance. Another artfully delivered guitar solo in this one. Ghost is a wry, fun song comparing the social practice of “ghosting” with actual haunting. Liar’s Debt (I Lie To You) is my favourite, a slow-burner that builds into a huge, rocking groove. The final track of the album, fittingly titled Leaving You Behind, has a strong reggae influence, with a deliciously danceable bounce, and another devilishly good little solo. Salty ends on a suitably high note.

I won’t be remotely surprised to see this become many people’s party album of the summer, just perfect for barbies, beaches, road trips and house parties. If you see that they’re playing live anywhere near you, I reckon it’s a pretty safe bet that they’d knock your flippin’ socks off. Check out Betsy and The Reckless as soon as you possibly can.