Review: Miss Robin Banks – Lost In Austin
Miss Robin Banks reconnects with her Texas roots on ‘Lost In Austin’, a warm blend of blues, R&B, soul and Americana
Miss Robin Banks – Lost In Austin
Format: CD / Digital Download
Label: Dallas Blues Society Records
Release date: July 1, 2026
Text: Henk Hekkelman
Miss Robin Banks reconnects with her Texas roots on ‘Lost In Austin’, a warm blend of blues, R&B, soul and Americana.
Some albums are planned months in advance, while others seem to come together almost naturally. ‘Lost In Austin’ belongs firmly in the latter category. What began as a studio session with old musical friends developed into the foundations of a complete album in just two days. That spontaneous beginning can be heard throughout: the music sounds relaxed, lively and never overly polished.
Miss Robin Banks was born in Canada but spent seven years living in Dallas, where she became closely connected to the Texas blues scene. On ‘Lost In Austin’, she returns to those musical roots. Guitarist Johnny Moeller, drummer Jay Moeller and bassist Drew Allain form a band that gives her plenty of room. They know when to push the music forward, but also when to take a step back.
Banks moves easily between blues, R&B, soul and Americana. Opening track Not Today immediately sets the tone. Rather than starting on a sombre note, she delivers a confident song filled with humour and defiance. It’s My Time also presents a woman ready to claim her place without asking anyone’s permission.
Steve Marriner’s harmonica gives Supersonic Rocket Ship some extra momentum. Modern Man takes a concerned and slightly bewildered look at the world today, while These Days reveals a more personal side. Roly Platt’s harmonica fits the reflective atmosphere particularly well.
The album’s country-soul flavour comes to the surface on It’s Too Late. Dale Rivard’s pedal steel adds just the right colour without suddenly turning the record into a country album. Later, Banks proves equally convincing with the classic slow-blues feel of Cold Cold Feelin’. Her voice sounds powerful and lived-in, without relying on exaggerated vocal displays.
Despite the excellent musicians involved, ‘Lost In Austin’ is never about individual showmanship. Johnny Moeller regularly reminds us why he is regarded as such a strong Texas blues guitarist, but his playing always serves the song. The same applies to Bruce Bears’ keyboards and the various guest contributions.
The playful closing track Talk Dirty To Ya prevents the album from ending too seriously. It combines humour, soul and a delightfully loose feel. In many ways, it sums up the strength of the entire record.
‘Lost In Austin’ does not attempt to reinvent the blues, nor does it need to. Miss Robin Banks relies on good songs, an excellent band and plenty of personality. The result is a warm and varied album that brings together her years in Texas and her broad musical experience.
Tracks:
01. Not Today
02. Supersonic Rocket Ship
03. It’s My Time
04. Modern Man
05. These Days
06. It’s Too Late
07. Never 51/Maple Leave It Alone
08. Some Other Day Some Other Time
09. Cold Cold Feelin’
10. Talk Dirty To Ya
Order ‘Lost In Austin’ on CD or as a digital download via Website: Miss Robin Banks website
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