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Album Review

Belle Lundon Gets Emotional and Existential on “Space Cadet”

Belle Lundon is a multifaceted artist excelling in music, acting, and songwriting. Raised in New Orleans and now based in Houston, her artistic journey blossomed at the California Institute of the Arts. In 2016, Belle won a Coca-Cola music competition, leading to a performance at the Apollo Theater in New York where she captivated audiences with “He Wants It All” by Forever Jones. Beyond covers, Belle’s original song “My Soul to Keep” earned her the W.A.M. Award for Best Gospel Song in 2020. Belle’s passion lies in sharing her music globally, with dreams of embarking on international tours, always striving for authenticity, success, and happiness in her artistry.

Her latest single, “Space Cadet” captures the internal struggle of feeling overwhelmed and seeking redemption and support. It conveys a narrative of personal turmoil, mistakes, and the human desire for a sense of upliftment and understanding. The recurring motif of drowning and being lifted up symbolizes the search for hope and assistance in times of despair.

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The lyrics delve into themes of vulnerability, redemption, and the human condition. The repeated lines “Feels like I’m drowning, grab my hands and lift me up” suggest a plea for help and connection, emphasizing the universal need for support and understanding. The contrast between “giving up” and “not giving up” reflects the internal conflict between resignation and resilience. The mention of “Subliminal like haiku” indicates a nuanced and profound communication of feelings, akin to the brevity and depth of haiku poetry. The invocation of “Chrios” could symbolize a call to a higher power or inner strength, adding a spiritual dimension to the song’s exploration of seeking guidance and clarity.

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For further thematic exploration, artists like Sufjan Stevens, with his introspective and often spiritual lyrics, and Florence + The Machine, known for their poetic and metaphysical themes, would resonate with the mood and style of “Space Cadet.”

“Space Cadet” seems to be a richly textured song that weaves together themes of struggle and resilience with a musical backdrop that spans pop, R&B, and electronic genres, infused with elements of dream pop and synth-pop. The song’s narrative centers on the journey through hardship, underlined by an emotional plea for support and the hope for a brighter, more euphoric future. Its lyrics reflect a deep sense of being overwhelmed yet underscore a strong will to persevere and overcome, making it a poignant anthem for those facing their own battles.

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The combination of hopeful, resilient, and determined moods with the thematic focus on struggle, resilience, and support creates a compelling contrast against the relaxed, dreamy, and ethereal tones provided by the music’s instrumentation. The use of synth, drums, guitar, and piano, alongside the subgenres like chillwave and lo-fi, suggests a sound that is both introspective and uplifting, capable of transporting the listener to a state of contemplation and solace.

This duality between the song’s thematic depth and its sonic atmosphere might be what Belle Lundon aims to convey: a message that even in the depths of adversity, there is a space for dreaming, hope, and finding support, whether through personal connections or the universal experience of music. “Space Cadet” appears to be an invitation to acknowledge our vulnerabilities and struggles but also to remember the strength and resilience within us that helps to navigate through tough times.

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–James Watkins

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Album Review

Review of Pam Ross’ “When Therapy Fails” LP

Pam Ross’ debut album, “When Therapy Fails,” represents a vibrant foray into the music world with a compelling blend of rock, Americana, and country. This debut from the Fuquay Varina-based artist, affectionately enveloped in what has been termed “PamMusic,” strikes a resonant chord through its fusion of earnest lyricism and robust musicality.

The Sound

The album is framed by Pam’s dynamic vocal abilities that effortlessly transition from fiery rock anthems to tender country ballads. Her voice, characterized by its raw emotional depth, serves as the linchpin holding the varied styles together. The instrumentation across the album, particularly the guitar work, is robust and purposeful, complementing her storytelling prowess.

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Track Highlights

  1. “Fire In the Hole” starts the album with a rousing energy that’s both infectious and reflective of Pam’s known stage presence. The track sets a high bar with its spirited guitar riffs and anthemic chorus.
  2. “Falling off the Merry Go Round” showcases Pam’s lyrical skills, weaving a poignant narrative about life’s unpredictability and the pain of letting go.
  3. The chart-topping single, “Better Than a Good Thing,” encapsulates the album’s theme of finding joy and resolution amidst personal turmoil. The song’s catchy hook and heartfelt lyrics undoubtedly contributed to its success.

Lyrics and Themes

The album’s title, “When Therapy Fails,” hints at the deeply introspective nature of its content. Each song serves as a vignette, exploring themes of resilience, personal struggle, and the redemptive power of music. The lyrics are both clever and impactful, with songs like “Cornflakes and Beer” using everyday imagery to discuss deeper emotional truths.

Overall Impression

“When Therapy Fails” is an accomplished debut that firmly establishes Pam Ross as a significant new voice in her genre fusion. The album not only navigates the complexities of personal adversity but does so with an infectious zest and genuine artistry. Its blend of genres, compelling lyrics, and Pam’s vocal prowess make for a memorable musical journey.

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In conclusion, Pam Ross’ “When Therapy Fails” is a robust introduction to her artistic vision, filled with tracks that are likely to resonate with a broad audience while earning her a spot among the notable newcomers in the indie music scene.


Recommendations and Playlist

For those drawn to Pam Ross’ style and themes, I recommend checking out the album “Midwest Farmer’s Daughter” by Margo Price. It shares a similar authentic narrative style and musical blend.

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Here’s a playlist themed around resilience and renewal, inspired by the vibe of Pam Ross’ “When Therapy Fails.” This collection blends rock, Americana, and country, featuring songs that echo themes of overcoming and personal growth.

“Resilience & Renewal” Playlist

  1. Margo Price – “Hands of Time”
  2. Brandi Carlile – “The Story”
  3. Jason Isbell – “Something to Love”
  4. Chris Stapleton – “Starting Over”
  5. Lucinda Williams – “Car Wheels on a Gravel Road”
  6. Patty Griffin – “Heavenly Day”
  7. Kacey Musgraves – “Rainbow”
  8. Sturgill Simpson – “Keep It Between the Lines”
  9. The Highwomen – “Redesigning Women”
  10. John Prine – “I Remember Everything”
  11. Miranda Lambert – “Bluebird”
  12. Ryan Adams – “Come Pick Me Up”
  13. Sheryl Crow – “Redemption Day”
  14. Gillian Welch – “Everything Is Free”
  15. Bob Dylan – “Not Dark Yet”
  16. The Avett Brothers – “No Hard Feelings”
  17. Willie Nelson – “Ride Me Back Home”
  18. Emmylou Harris – “The Road”
  19. Tom Petty – “I Forgive It All”
  20. Ray LaMontagne – “Such A Simple Thing”

These tracks not only reflect the journey through struggles and the pursuit of peace but also complement the rich musical textures and emotional depth found in “When Therapy Fails.” Enjoy the music and the messages woven throughout this carefully curated playlist!

–Jamie Jones

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Album Review

Sugarcane Jane Struggles with Life’s Choices and Consequences on “Burn”

Sugarcane Jane, composed of the husband and wife duo Anthony Crawford and Savana Lee Crawford, is a treasure of the Americana music scene. Hailing from the deep south of Alabama, they are celebrated for their harmonious blend of country, folk, and roots music. Anthony Crawford brings an impressive musical pedigree to the partnership, having worked with renowned artists like Neil Young, Steve Winwood, and Dwight Yoakam. Savana Lee adds her rich, soulful vocals and a knack for storytelling that resonates with listeners. Together, they create music that is both deeply personal and universally relatable, marked by intricate guitar work, captivating melodies, and lyrics that speak to the heart. Their performances are a testament to their chemistry, both on stage and in life, making Sugarcane Jane a beloved act in the Americana and folk music circuits.

Their recent album release, “On a Mission” is a collection of rootsy rock n roll tracks, including first single, “Burn.” “Burn” is a compelling musical exploration of the human condition, articulated through the lens of making choices and the inherent uncertainty that accompanies them. The lyrics adeptly navigate the listener through a journey of internal struggle, capturing the essence of indecision and the myriad paths that life offers. This song stands out for its ability to encapsulate the emotional turbulence of decision-making—highlighting not just the moment of choice but the profound aftermath of those choices.

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The moods of confusion and determination are particularly pronounced, painting a vivid picture of the mental tug-of-war that characterizes moments of significant decision-making. The song’s introspective quality invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences with choices and the paths they’ve taken or forsaken.

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Thematically, “Burn” delves deep into the core of internal struggle and the consequences of our decisions. The song serves as a poignant reminder of the uncertainty we all face and the introspective journey we undertake in seeking our truth. Its reflective tone, coupled with the themes of decision-making and internal struggle, makes “Burn” resonate deeply with listeners, encouraging a personal introspection about the paths we choose in life.

Overall, “Burn” offers a rich tapestry of lyrical depth that speaks to the soul’s quest for direction amidst life’s crossroads. It’s a song that not only entertains but also provokes thought, making it a valuable addition to the discourse on life’s complexities.

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Frank Filipetti

 

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