LaBelle, who came of age as a musician on the NJ pop punk scene, has taken a unique approach to “Blossom & Blue,” recording each song live to capture the raw emotion that shines through on each track. She also heavily uses guitar on this album, rather than her usual instrument of choice, the piano. “I really wanted to rock out on this album,” says LaBelle. “I learned guitar about three years ago and I wanted to go for it.”

The unique collection of songs reveals several of her main influences. Opening track, “Losing All The Way,” has a very '60s girl group vibe to it, while “Heaven Can Burn” contains flourishes of Fleetwood Mac and Tom Waits, with the chorus emerging like a howl, brimming with emotion. “Honey Song” goes in a different direction, with tinges of Patsy Cline and alternative country, featuring a haunting melody that’s impossible to get out of your head. LaBelle also explores several different moods on the record, delving deeply into the bittersweet complexities of romantic relationships.

“I feel like I’m at a time where I’m blossoming as an artist,” LaBelle says. “I think this album shows my development as a musician. I’ve always been into vintage sound, and using an organic approach allowed me to tap into classic influences in a way that was really spontaneous and energizing. I feel a rebirth from this album.”