Diana Rein

Diana Rein, known and referred to by her fans as the Six String Siren, a suiting name for the Romanian born and Chicago bred electric guitarist returns with Long Road.

Long Road begins with the title track. The album has three ballads, one that touches the soul without the use of a single word, just Diana and her Fender giving a speech with every sound the strings create “Peace,” the closing track; then we have the heartache put into music, despite the emotion and close to dramatic lyrics, they hit the right note, rock is still rock, besides, how blues would it be without the gloomy mood that ended love brings? The best of both worlds (or genres). Give a good listen to both the heartbroken “Wicked” and the pleading “Don’t Walk Away.”

All of the songs in the album explain, in different levels, parts of her as a musician and as a person. In “Wild One” she even makes a reference to one of her biggest influences, Stevie Ray Vaughan, who could easily be imagined stomping his feet and nodding in approval listening to her solos in the electric guitar driven “Down Down Down” “Livin’ Loud” and “Green Light.” There are tracks with personality of their own, cool tracks, hell, James Dean cool “Rebel With a Cause”; There are the big badasses, “Come Back Home” and “Done Me Dirty,” cuss out all you want, Diana gets how you feel.

Keep an eye out for Rein, as she has joined forces with Paper Moon Gypsys, and things seem promising.

The Review: 8/10

Can’t Miss Tracks

– Long Road
– Peace
– Wild One
– Green Light
– Rebel With a Cause

The Big Hit

– Long Road - Blues Rock Review

Six String Siren Diana Rein has issued her second album, Long Road, and it’s the perfect blending of hard hitting blues and rock is guaranteed to excite blues fans! The album displays Rein’s scorching guitar riffs and sultry vocals, perfectly complimenting her debut album, The Back Room, released in 2007.

Long Road is the result of Rein’s being able to combine blues and rock seamlessly, not always the easiest thing to accomplish. “Wild One,” is a stellar tune that exhibits in your grill guitar riffs, along with haunting vocals that have the listener playing along on air guitar! One of our favorites is “Livin’ Loud,” a slow-grooving number with a dark beat, destined to have heads bobbing throughout the song. An excellent example of the diverse sounds Rein packs on this latest release is “Green Light,” with guitar riffs that will become a favorite of her growing fan base.

“Rebel With A Cause,” has Rein showcasing her skills with phenomenal power chords that will have fans cocking an eyebrow. Another favorite of ours is “Come Back Home,” a beautiful and haunting song has the listener enjoying the influence of Jimi Hendrix, along with a hint of the Doors classic, “Five To One.” Here’s a song that recalls the first generation of classic rockers of the late sixties!

The closing track on the album, “Peace” begins with a sweet, melodic slow groove, and builds from there. Rein’s guitar playing throughout the song is pure beauty, and very soothing. Listeners will revel as she channels her inner Stevie Ray Vaughn here.

Diana Rein is one of the blues world’s rising stars. She has numerous fans on Youtube, where folks can watch her put a blues twist on works such as Taylor Swift’s “Shake It Off,” and more! On Long Road, Rein confirms she is a rare talent with the ability to capture the listener and hold them throughout the album. This album is a gem that should be in every blues fan’s music library. Be sure to get your copy today! - American Blues Scene Magazine

Diana Rein’s sophomore release, Long Road, is a slightly curious album. While holding itself out as a blues release, it actually sits more comfortably in the heavy rock category, albeit one with a blues influence. And then, somewhat confusingly, when you insert the album into a CD reader, it categorises its own genre as “Indie Rock.”

Rein acknowledges Stevie Ray Vaughan as her over-riding inspiration, to the extent of naming her son after him, naming her record label after one of his songs and referencing him in her lyrics, and yet the music itself is a long way away from the blues and blues-rock that SRV played. Perhaps the closest it comes to SRV is in the funky verse riff of “The Real Thing”, although the vocals, chorus and break again veer into rock territory.

Elsewhere, Rein’s primary influence appears to be the classic heavy rock of riff-based bands such as Deep Purple, Uriah Heep or even Black Sabbath – the riffs, vocal melodies and vocal performances from “Livin’ Loud”, “Green Light” or “Come Back Home” could have come from an early album by either band. Which isn’t to say that there isn’t a lot a variety on show – the gentle instrumental closer “Peace” has hints of Rainbow’s “Weiss Heim”, while the raucous driving rock of “Wild One” boasts a memorably effective riff. “Down Down Down” has echoes of Band of Sculls in its modern-day stomp, while the chorus effect on the guitars in “Don’t Walk Away” and Rein’s vocal melody give the song an enjoyably 80’s feel. Individual songs often demonstrate significant structural dynamics, such as the segue in “Done Me Dirty” from its opening classic heavy rock riff to the acoustic verse and chorus.

Rein is clearly a serious talent. She produced the album, wrote all 12 songs and, in addition to providing all the vocals, she also played all the lead, rhythm and bass guitars. Favouring a reverb-laden lead tone, Rein is capable of producing some mouth-watering classic Strat tones in her quieter moments. What is generally absent however is any deep feeling for the blues and one has to wonder how much this is related to Rein’s decision to use EZDrummer to provide the drum parts to the album.

A decision to use drumming software rather than a real drummer can be contentious. Drum programming is still a long way from being able to replicate the subtle dynamics made by a living person. This is particularly true for the grooves required in blues and rock where micro-variations in rhythm or volume can dramatically affect the overall sound of a recording. As a result, despite the superb mixing and mastering by Peter Duff, the songs on Hard Road can sound like they are missing an intangible human element. So, for example, on “Wicked” there is a sense of unresolved anticipation as Rein builds and develops her guitar solo but the rhythm section doesn’t quite follow.

There are many enjoyable moments on Long Road and more than enough signs that Rein has a lot to offer. It will be fascinating to see where she goes next. - Blues Blast Magazine

Hailing from Chicago, with a background from Eastern Europe, Diana Rein combines a soulful voice with the soaring melodies of her blues-rock guitar.


Long Road, released on May 16, is the latest album from Diana Rein. Rein proves herself multi-talented by not only writing, recording, and producing Long Road, she also sings and plays lead, bass, and rhythm guitars.

The album, which features twelve original tracks, was mixed and mastered by Peter Duff in San Diego.

DianaRein-HighRoad-AlbumArtworkThe opening track, “Long Road,” starts with a haunting vocal before a slow blues melody kicks in creating warmth and depth, amidst clean guitar breaks interspersed with the vocal lines.

A small negative factor is the lack of feel that a human drummer often brings to a band. The intro to “Wild One” highlights this shortcoming to what is an otherwise terrific blues-rock riff. Rein’s lead guitar work is reminiscent of her stated primary influence, the late Stevie Ray Vaughan.

“Livin’ Loud” features a reverb-heavy guitar melody through the verse. After a pre-chorus and chorus that seems to be leading up to something huge, Rein takes us away on a jazz-blues flight of fantasy before working back to the core melody and rhythm of the song.

A tight staccato chorus line, punchy guitar work, and call and response vocals are the highlights of “Green Light” in which Rein’s solo takes us into a vocal workout where she pushes herself hard.

“Rebel with a Cause” is the most catchy track on the record, featuring tight riffs, a gritty guitar tone, tasty lead breaks, and a more natural feel to the drumming.

“The Real Thing” has an up-tempo feel, with the guitar riff mirrored by the tom-toms, and powerful lead vocals.

The album shows some consistent traits of melodic guitar riffs under a reverb-heavy lead guitar line. Rein’s strong vocal performance and her multi-instrumental talents are evident. This sound continues in “Done Me Dirty” before the feel reverts to the mellow ballad “Don’t Walk Away”.

Another great melodic riff with some funked-up vocals add to the impact of “Come Back Home,” and Rein again shows off her wide vocal range through the chorus.

The opening guitar work to “Wicked” is possibly the best on the record, and the song pushes through some incredible vocals and then turns into an insistent ballad with lovely solo work through to the close.

“Down Down Down” opens with a vocal/guitar intro before the main almost Motown-like beat of the verse. The highlight is a somewhat unruly rhythm guitar, which brings a sense of passion to the song.

The closing track, “Peace,” is a gentle instrumental number, with clean guitar work that brings a dream-like quality to the song.

While Rein plays and sings with passion on the album, it would be interesting to see her perform live with a full band. Such a setting may give us the chance to hear her rip loose with her voice and experience her potential for playing the blues as only a live show will allow. - National Blues Review

On Long Road, Diana Rein’s latest critically-lauded album, the ‘Six-String Siren’ displays a sharp tongue, driving blues-based guitar, and melodic solos. The title track eases you into the album with the admission that life tried to steal her dream but “it’s been a long road and now I’m coming home, time forgives, lets me in, starting over.” With vocals and guitar solos intertwining in a call-and-response fashion, the melody keeps you floating on a sea of sound. “Wild One” punches the listener in the gut with its bone-rattling bass line and lead guitar riff. This sets the stage for what Long Road is about: Soaring guitar solos and thought-provoking lyrics. Some big attitude from a little lady. “I love to play the Blues till dawn, my main man is Stevie Ray Vaughan,” which also allows Rein to honor her biggest inspiration. “Livin’ Loud” exudes a swamp-y swagger, it’s Hendrix-esque ’60’s guitar solo driving home the point that loud is the way it’s going to be. “Greenlight” is a response to Doyle Bramhall Jr.’s “Greenlight Girl,” with driving drums that won’t let up and guitars that sound like a train steadily making its way into the stratosphere: “I’m gonna take you home tonight, it’s us and the spirits of the night, baby I won’t put up a fight, I want you now.”

Blues-E-News did a 5 Quick Questions-type interview with Diana recently.

BEN: If you were to meet your main guitar hero, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and were given the opportunity to play one SRV-penned song live onstage with him, which song would it be, and why?

DR: That would definitely have to be Life Without You. I don’t think it is a coincidence that I like that song the most because it is the song that he used to single out in his set to bring the music down and just talk to his audience from his heart. It was written for his longtime friend but after SRV got sober, he used it as a platform to open the door for people who were needing to hear some healing words and get sober. I love that SRV had a platform to get even closer to his audience, so they could see him as a human being and not just a guitar god. His suffering allowed him to escape into music which was definitely a gift to us all, but the biggest gift he left behind was that he overcame his demons and shined even more. He is such a great example to us all that are struggling. We all want to know that we can break through to the other side and still be okay. I know sometimes it might be easier to hang on to our habits, but easier doesn’t mean better by any means.

BEN: How about a Diana Rein Top 3 list of who you feel are the best of the younger, new breed of male blues guitarists, and why?

DR: Let’s see….the first that comes to mind is Philip Sayce. Having the opportunity to see him play live many times, I just dig the commitment and command that he has over the guitar with tone for days. Philip shares some of my same influences. He has been playing for a very long time and has really paid his dues. I just really love the way he puts his phrasing together and throws in many surprises, with speed or not. He knows how to switch it up really well and keep it interesting.

I would also have to put Anthony Gomes on this list because I met him in 2004 I believe and there is no doubt in my mind that he is the hardest-working guy out there with such a dynamic show. He’s an awesome player and he really entertains and knows how to connect with his audience. Plus, I really vibe with his message that Music is the Medicine. I would also have to put Joe Bonamassa on this list although he has been around for a while. When I came to know of him it was probably around 2004. To see his evolution and continued obsession with the guitar has been very inspiring to watch. I am really liking that he developed his voice over the years to be able to sing as well. It’s just nice when an artist has the full package going on. And I must admit, I love watching his videos where he shows his never-ending collection of amps and guitars. That guy just doesn’t stop.




BUY NOW! Diana’s debut album
BEN: Same questions as above, except this time, the top three best young new female blues guitarists?

DR: The first one that comes to mind is Samantha Fish. I like that she is experimenting with new sounds and I have to respect how hard she works and tours. She is very good at finding grooves in her songs and creating themes to give her audience the space and time to get into it. Not to mention the fact that she is great at leading her band and is confident to step into the role. Next, I would say Joanne Shaw Taylor…she’s definitely influenced by SRV and I can hear it in her playing. I can tell that she has formed a deep bond with guitar playing and that she allows herself to get enveloped by the spirit that moves her when she plays. It’s great to see her let go. There’s also another girl that comes to mind whose name is Sadie Johnson. She has a lot of spunk and talent….you can just tell that she loves playing and that’s very infectious.



BEN: What guitars are you currently using, and what about these guitar (brands) make them your favorites?

DR: The guitars I currently use are the same ones that I started playing on and that have been with me from my two starts. The first is a red Fender Stratocaster, Cali Series that is now twenty years old. My father bought it for me eleven or twelve years ago during what I call my false start at playing the electric guitar. I didn’t know what real practice was until I got wiser and realized that time doesn’t stand still. My real start was in 2013 and it was then that my husband gifted me with a guitar that I wanted because it had a thick baseball bat neck….a sunburst Fender 1962 reissue Vintage Hot Rod Strat. I just love the thicker neck because it helps my hand ergonomically to stay in a looser position so that it doesn’t cramp up when I am practicing and playing. The thick neck also lends itself to a better tone in my opinion and I have had a few offers from people during gigs to buy the guitar from me. That’s always a surprise to me because unless I was really down and out financially, I would never consciously part with my two babies! (laughs). They were given to me by the two most important men in my life, they gifted me with songs and joy and they fit like a glove by now. They are priceless.



BEN: Of all the different music genres you could have picked, Diana Rein chose the blues (or, they chose you). What is your most compelling reason why you’re a Lady of the Blues?
DR: I am an emotional person…..a lot of times I have been accused of being a melancholy person…..sure I like to smile and be friendly, but sometimes people see something behind my eyes that they recognize…a certain sadness. I can’t help it. It’s just there. From the time I was eight and remember hearing the blues for the first time…it was so expressive and simple and beautiful. It was something deep and sorrowful but also happy and engaging. It could bring people together that understood that life wasn’t perfect always. It’s accepting. But most of all, it is the best framework to allow the guitar to speak…melodically….and share what could never be spoken. I love the sound of the guitar so much, more than singing, that I get chills when I get to step into a solo and unabashedly get to sore on sound. Words just can’t do a feeling justice like the expression of a blues guitar. So I am honored that I have found this gateway to hear the cries and majesty of the guitar but with my emotion built into it. It’s the ultimate form of self- expression for me. I get to play what I love to hear. - Blues E-News

"Without a doubt, the star on Diana Rein’s album, The Back Room, is her evocative, lofty voice. Her delivery and range propel the bubbling opener, “You’ll Be Mine,” and lends grace and subtly to the title track. Her seductive vocals are matched with her superb guitar playing. Fiery leads on “Goodbye” show an acute sense of marrying melody with nimble technical acumen, and her flashy playing allows ample room for her songwriting to shine. (www.dianarein.com"
– Patrick Conlan of Illinois Entertainer - Illinois Entertainer

Campus Activities Magazine put out a feature for their Jan/Feb 2008 issue that included Diana Rein as one of six musicians to watch out for and book in 2008!
To view the article, please go to:
http://www.dianarein.com/2008/01/new-look-new-year.html
- Campus Activities Magazine

"Many of us heard the melodic voice of Diana Rein floating in the air from Springwood to Middlefork....Diana writes her songs herself, getting her inspiration from the news, internet forums and her own life experiences. Her solo music varies from country to a blues sound."-Jessica Neeley - Pioneer Press-Indiana East University