As anyone lucky enough to see her perform in Daniel Romano’s Outfit knows, Juliana Riolino is a firecracker. Lost in music, prowling the stage with a mix of menace and contempt, her demeanour recalled the heyday of the iconic rock and roll front person. Her solo persona may be tamped down a tad, but a simmering energy still percolates, taking the temperature down a notch or two from rapid boil.

Her songwriting and performances are personal with subtle shades and reflective messages. Her 2022 solo debut All Blue showcases the full evolution of an artist emerging from the shapeshifting Romano’s shadow and demanding attention on her own merits. Easily fitting within the Americana (Canadiana?) genre, the music borrows from multiple influences. While Emmylou Harris and (a raspy) Dolly Parton are frequently cited references, there is more of a hip Queen Street melting pot than those artists would imply. With one foot in country and another in rock and roll, you can imagine Juliana and band finishing up at the Whiskey a Go Go circa 1970, just prior to a raging party in Laurel Canyon.

— Jay Nelson