Erja Lyytinen – Smell the Roses: A Soulful Blues-Rock Journey with Vintage Vibes

Review By Glen Parkes

Finnish blues-rock virtuoso Erja Lyytinen is back, and she’s bringing a sonic time machine with her. Smell the Roses, her latest studio album, set for release on March 28th, 2025, is a rich blend of blues, rock, and vintage soul, infused with the warmth of ‘70s analog recording techniques. Following 2022’s Waiting for the Daylight, this new record finds Lyytinen pushing her creative boundaries while staying true to the heartfelt storytelling and masterful guitar work that have made her a standout in the modern blues scene.

Recorded at Hollywood House Studios in Helsinki, Smell the Roses embraces the warmth and raw energy of the rock era. Lyytinen and her team used analog gear, including a two-track tape machine, to craft an album that feels organic, dynamic, and alive. The result? A record that oozes authenticity—one that begs to be played on vinyl, cranked loud, and absorbed in full.

Erja’s love for classic rock is evident throughout the album. While she’s always had a blues foundation, Smell the Roses leans even further into that timeless sound, evoking shades of Led Zeppelin, Fleetwood Mac, and Janis Joplin, all wrapped in her signature fiery slide guitar work.

Track Highlights

“Smell the Roses” The title track sets the tone with a sultry groove and a message about slowing down and appreciating the moment. It’s bluesy, soulful, and drenched in Erja’s expressive guitar playing, making it an instant standout.”Going to Hell” A gritty, rebellious track that kicks up the tempo, “Going to Hell” features one of the album’s most electrifying solos. The riffs are thick, the rhythm section is pounding, and Erja’s vocals carry just the right amount of attitude.”Abyss” A moody, atmospheric piece that showcases Lyytinen’s ability to create tension and emotion with her guitar. There’s an almost hypnotic quality to this track, pulling the listener deeper into the album’s sonic world.

“Dragonfly” Here, Lyytinen’s slide guitar takes center stage in a swampy, delta-blues-inspired number. The interplay between her vocals and guitar lines is mesmerizing, showcasing her technical prowess and deep connection to the instrument. “Wings to Fly” One of the more uplifting tracks, this one blends blues with folk-rock elements, evoking the spirit of classic singer-songwriters. The melodies soar, and the chorus sticks in your head long after the song ends. “The Ring” A deeply personal and introspective song, “The Ring” has a stripped-back arrangement that lets Lyytinen’s voice shine. It’s a reminder that she’s not just a phenomenal guitarist but also a compelling songwriter.

“Ball and Chain” This track delivers a heavy blues stomp reminiscent of vintage ZZ Top. The thick, overdriven guitar tone paired with a driving rhythm section makes for an absolute powerhouse moment on the album. “Stoney Creek” A beautifully crafted tune with a haunting melody, “Stoney Creek” highlights Lyytinen’s ability to weave storytelling into her music effortlessly. The instrumentation is lush yet restrained, letting the lyrics take the spotlight. “Empty Hours” Closing the album on a reflective note, “Empty Hours” is a slow-burning blues ballad that leaves a lasting impact. There’s a sense of longing in Erja’s delivery, making it one of the most emotionally resonant songs on the record.

What makes Smell the Roses such a compelling listen is how well it’s put together. The production is warm and organic, allowing every instrument to breathe. The album flows beautifully from start to finish, shifting between high-energy moments and introspective passages without ever losing momentum. Lyytinen’s guitar work is, as always, impeccable—whether she’s laying down scorching solos or subtle, expressive licks that add depth to each song.

Beyond the technical aspects, there’s a raw, emotional quality to Smell the Roses that makes it special. It’s clear that Lyytinen poured her heart into these songs, and that sincerity shines through in every note. This is an album that pays homage to the golden era of rock while still feeling fresh and relevant in today’s blues-rock landscape. Smell the Roses is a masterful blend of blues, rock, and soul, wrapped in a vintage aesthetic that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Erja Lyytinen continues to evolve as an artist, proving that she’s not just a phenomenal guitarist but also a visionary musician with an unshakable creative drive. Fans of classic blues-rock, slide guitar mastery, and authentic, heartfelt songwriting will find plenty to love here.

Rating: 9/10

Tracklist:

1. Smell the Roses
2. Going to Hell
3. Abyss
4. Wings to Fly
5. Dragonfly
6. The Ring
7. Ball and Chain
8. Stoney Creek
9. Empty Hours