Val Storey’s “I’ve Just Seen A Face”: A Bluegrass Gem Shines Bright on Mighty Cord Records
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
In the vibrant tapestry of Nashville’s music scene, certain voices resonate with a rare purity and soul. Val Storey is undoubtedly one of them. For decades, she’s been a quiet powerhouse, lending her remarkable vocal talents to countless projects across country, gospel, and bluegrass. Now, with her signing to Larry Cordle’s Mighty Cord Records and the digital release of her single, “I’ve Just Seen A Face,” Storey is poised to step into the bluegrass spotlight she so richly deserves.
“I’ve Just Seen A Face” is an intriguing choice for a bluegrass single, a fresh interpretation of the classic Beatles tune penned by Paul McCartney. While a Fab Four song might seem an unconventional fit for the genre, Storey’s rendition makes it feel utterly natural. Her heartfelt vocals imbue the lyrics with a poignant sincerity, perfectly capturing that fleeting, magical moment of instant connection. It’s clear why this song holds a special place for her, and she delivers it with a warmth that draws you in from the very first note. The arrangement, rich with acoustic textures, respects the original’s charm while subtly infusing it with bluegrass sensibilities.
This isn’t Val Storey’s first rodeo, nor is it her first collaboration with Larry Cordle. As Cordle himself notes, he’s had the privilege of performing alongside her at Nashville’s legendary Station Inn for over a decade. Their history together is evident in the seamless synergy on this track. Cordle’s admiration for Storey is palpable; he speaks of her as “one of my all-time favorite female singers,” praising her ability to “own” every song she sings. Indeed, Storey’s vocal command is impressive, whether she’s navigating the intricacies of bluegrass or delving into the heartfelt narratives of country. It’s also worth noting that Storey’s journey has been marked by resilience, including a serious motorcycle accident and a pandemic-delayed country album, Share Your Secrets With Me, which finally saw its release in 2024. Her enduring spirit shines through her music.
For “I’ve Just Seen A Face,” Storey and Cordle assembled a veritable dream team of bluegrass musicians. The lineup is nothing short of stellar: Bryan Sutton on acoustic and reso guitar, Aubrey Haynie on mandolin and fiddle, Scott Vestal on banjo, Mark Fain on bass, and the “Brothers of The Heart” group – Jimmy Fortune, Ben Isaacs, and Bradley Walker – providing their signature harmonies. Each musician brings their A-game, creating a rich, vibrant sonic landscape that perfectly complements Storey’s vocals. The collaboration is exceptional, elevating the single from a simple cover to a standout bluegrass offering.
Cordle’s enthusiasm for Storey’s future in bluegrass is infectious. He highlights her extraordinary versatility, noting her effortless transitions between bluegrass, country, gospel, and even jazz. This broad artistic range is precisely what makes her such an exciting addition to the Mighty Cord Records roster. As Cordle puts it, her diverse talent ensures her a promising future in the genre, and Mighty Cord Records is honored to introduce this new single to the bluegrass community.
For those eager to experience Val Storey’s remarkable talent firsthand, she can be found regularly at the world-famous Station Inn in Nashville. She’s a staple every Monday night at “New Monday” with Carl Jackson and Larry Cordle, a beloved weekly show that serves up harmony-rich bluegrass, country, and Americana. Additionally, she leads “Sunday Gospel with Val Storey, Larry Cordle, Mike Rogers & Friends,” a heartwarming tradition filled with uplifting gospel songs and soul-stirring performances.
Produced by Larry Cordle and expertly engineered by Chris Latham, “I’ve Just Seen A Face” is more than just a single; it’s a statement. It announces Val Storey as a force to be reckoned with in bluegrass, a seasoned vocalist whose time to shine has definitively arrived. If you’re a fan of soulful vocals, masterful musicianship, and a fresh take on a classic, this track is an absolute must-listen.