Samantha Fish: Paper Doll Review

A fierce force in modern blues rock, Samantha Fish has carved out a place as one of her generation’s most dynamic guitarists. With a catalog that veers from rootsy blues-based grit to pop swagger, and a reputation as a powerhouse live performer, she’s consistently pushed the limits of the genre. After a Grammy nomination for her 2023 collaboration with Jesse Dayton (Death Wish Blues) and sharing the stage with the Rolling Stones in 2024, Paper Doll, her newest record, arrives with a loose, road-worn chemistry and nine tracks packed with raw, electric charm.

Recorded with her touring band between shows on the road, including a stretch with Slash’s S.E.R.P.E.N.T. festival, Paper Doll brings nine fiery, emotionally charged tracks to life with a mix of arena rock energy, bluesy weight, and melodic soul. Produced by Bobby Harlow (who also helmed 2017’s Chills & Fever), the album feels like a culmination of everything Fish has honed over the years: a big guitar sound, soaring vocals, and an ever-evolving flair for memorable songwriting.

The album kicks off with “I’m Done Runnin’,” a gritty blues rock statement of intent with great slide work and a punchy rhythm section that gives the track real drive. Fish’s vocals carry an edge of defiance, and there’s an element of hard rock grandiose that elevates the whole thing and make it an exceptional opener.

Following suit, the aptly titled “Can Ya Handle The Heat?” turns up the temperature with a slinky, riff-heavy groove and a solo that sizzles without overstaying its welcome. It’s playful but sharp, and it fits perfectly next to the more shadowy terrain of “Fortune Teller,” where a brooding riff and hushed vocals set the scene before everything boils over into a dark, rousing chorus and a frenetic bridge.

The title track is another standout, a moody, mid-tempo burner with a stomping rhythm and some of Fish’s best vocal work on the album. “Rusty Razor,” on the other hand, is a more playful affair, leaning into pop rock territory with an infectious energy that’s impossible to ignore. There’s bite behind the fun, though, and Fish makes sure the punch lands.

On the more reflective side, “Sweet Southern Sounds” opens with warm organ tones and unfolds slowly, gradually building toward a frenzied climax. It leans more soul pop than blues at times, but the scorching lead work keeps it grounded in Fish’s blues rock roots.

Another aspect that sells Paper Doll is the balanced production. There’s a crispness and separation in the mix that lets every element breathe. Fish’s guitar tones are rich and organic, while the drums and keys cut through with punch and clarity. It’s polished without sounding sterile, and it lets the band’s chemistry shine.

Fish has always been a formidable guitarist, but here, she sounds more self-assured and creatively open than ever. The songs on offer here are not merely launching pads for her impressive guitar stylings, but also serve the emotion, the storytelling and the message she wants to convey. Also, there are moments of experimentation, but nothing feels forced or incoherent.

Overall, Paper Doll is bold, fun, dynamic, and driven by a clear artistic voice. You get the sense Fish and her band had a blast making it, and that feeling is contagious. The songs are hooky, punchy, and bursting with energy, making it the kind of record you’ll want to keep spinning on repeat.

The Review: 8.5/10

Can’t Miss Tracks

– Can Ya Handle The Heat
– Fortune Teller
– Sweet Southern Sounds
– Paper Doll
– Rusty Razor
– I’m Done Runnin’

The Big Hit

– I’m Done Runnin’