Drawing frequent comparisons to Janis Joplin, there is a reason why people are making such a fuss about Lauren Ruth Ward. The LA talent released her debut self-titled EP last year, and in preparation for her album Ward has partnered with Paperhaus guitarist Eduardo Rivera. Since this engagement, her music has taken a fantastically exciting turn towards early 60s rock, the fruit of which is new single ‘Blue Collar Sex Kitten’. The track is a screeching, floor stomping, romp of a track, complemented by Ward’s sharp wit: “Thought you found Jesus in me while I lie there faking”. With tracks as ballsy, rough-edged and energetic as this, we can’t wait to hear the full LP. -HM