A Soulful Return to Roots: Val Storey Captures the Sweetness of Tradition in “Taste of Life”
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
In an era where the music industry often chases the next fleeting trend, Nashville songstress Val Storey has decided to look backward to find the path forward. Her latest single, “Taste of Life,” released via Mighty Cord Records, isn’t just a new track—it’s a masterclass in Bluegrass storytelling that feels both timeless and deeply personal.
The Artist: Nashville’s Hidden Gem
For those frequenting the hallowed pews of The Station Inn on a Monday night, Val Storey is a familiar, powerhouse presence. Long respected by peers and purists alike, Storey possesses a voice that seems tailor-made for the high lonesome sound of Bluegrass.
Partnering once again with the legendary Larry Cordle, Storey steps into the spotlight with a grace that only comes from years of honing one’s craft in the heart of Music City. As Cordle himself puts it, she possesses “a voice made to sing this music.”
The Song: A Gift from Leona Williams
The DNA of “Taste of Life” is steeped in country music royalty. Written over 25 years ago by the great Leona Williams, the song sat waiting for the right messenger.
The track explores the foundational pillars of:
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Faith: The spiritual “center” that anchors the soul.
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Family: The legacy of prayers spoken by mothers and grandparents.
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Tradition: A sonic reminder of a “simpler time.”
Storey’s interpretation is one of reverence. There is a palpable sense of gratitude in her delivery—a “breathtaking” performance, as Cordle describes it—that honors the blessing Williams gave her to bring this song to the digital age.
The Production: An All-Star Bluegrass Ensemble
Producer Larry Cordle didn’t just provide his signature harmony vocals; he assembled a “crack band” of acoustic titans to ensure the instrumentation matched the weight of the lyrics.
Engineered by Chris Latham, the technical quality of the recording is pristine, allowing the interplay between Scott Vestal’s banjo and Jeneè Fleenor’s fiddle to dance around Storey’s vocals without ever crowding them.
The Verdict
“Taste of Life” is more than a nostalgic trip; it is a vibrant, living testament to the power of faith and family. It captures the essence of what makes life “sweet”—not the complexities of the modern world, but the prayers and simplicity of our roots.
Bluegrass fans will find much to love here, from the impeccable picking to the soaring harmonies. Val Storey has delivered a track that doesn’t just ask us to listen; it asks us to remember.