Album Review: Riddles Rhymes by Pepper Proud – A Folk Gem That Stays With You
If you’re into music that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, then Riddles Rhymes by Pepper Proud is worth your time. Released back in 2012, this album blends Folk, World, and Country vibes with a Singer/Songwriter twist. It’s raw, heartfelt, and has that “homegrown” charm that makes it feel like it was made just for you. Pepper Proud didn’t just write the songs—she poured her soul into them, and you can hear it loud and clear.
The album kicks off with some killer tracks, but two really stuck with me: “Love You, Love A Riddle” and “Fishing Girl.” Let’s talk about “Love You, Love A Riddle” first. This song hits different—it’s got this playful yet thoughtful vibe, like Pepper’s whispering a secret only you’re meant to hear. The harmonica by Ryan Henry Ward adds this earthy texture, and the backing vocals from Colin J Nelson give it a full, rich sound. Honestly, I found myself humming it days later, even when I wasn’t sure why. It’s catchy without trying too hard, which is kinda rare these days.
Then there’s “Fishing Girl,” and wow, does this one take you places. It’s slower, more reflective, and Pepper’s voice just floats over the instrumentation. The cello and violin, both played by Annie Ford, add this haunting layer that gives the track its emotional depth. There’s something about the way Pepper sings “Fishing Girl” that feels like she’s telling you a story you’ve lived before but forgot. By the end, you’re left staring out the window, thinking about life or maybe that one summer you spent by the lake.
What really makes Riddles Rhymes stand out is how organic it feels. You’ve got Todd Gray rocking the mandolin and double bass, Jon Pontrello adding banjo magic, and Jason Goessl pulling double duty as producer and electric bassist. Everyone brings their A-game, but nothing feels overproduced. It’s like they all sat in a circle in someone’s living room and just let the music happen. Even the mastering by Huntley Miller keeps things crisp without losing that human touch.
Pepper wrote every song here, and you can tell she means every word. Her guitar work is solid, but it’s her vocals that steal the show. She doesn’t try to impress; she just sings like she’s talking to an old friend. And honestly? That’s what makes it so easy to connect with.
Here’s the thing about Riddles Rhymes: it’s not gonna blow up the charts or get blasted at parties (unless you’ve got super chill friends). But it’s the kind of album that sneaks up on you. One day, you’ll be driving somewhere, put it on, and realize it’s exactly what you needed to hear.
Final thought? Listening to this album feels like finding a handwritten note in an old book—it’s simple, personal, and kinda makes you smile. Oh, and fun fact: I’m pretty sure Pepper Proud would crush at a campfire singalong. Just saying.
