Kacie Hill – “Splinter”
-“I take my time in record speed. I’m not scared of losing anything.” This might be the grooviest breakup song I’ve ever heard. The writer has the blues but the song is not bluesy; it’s downright anthemic in its soaring quality on the chorus. I like the vocal harmonies on this a lot. It feels a bit like a mid-century folk rock tune… blended with a saucy country style. The steel guitar on this one really makes it feel more country, but it’s a wonderful mix of styles. Hill’s voice and sincerity really sells it for me on this one.
Jonah Kagen – “Matches”
-It’s not every day that I find someone who makes me think of Matthew Mayfield, but Kagen has done it here. The mix of the almost spoken word style with the deep, gruff expression… is absolutely believable and great. The line “all it takes is gas to burn the city down with matches” is one of those punk lines blended into an alt country song… and it absolutely slaps. There’s something about the depth and sincerity that makes this song feel real. I stopped in the middle of the review to share it with two of my friends. That’s exactly how I feel about it. You should share it too. This is the genuine article.
Wild Ponies – “Dreamers”
-When I tell people I listen to alt country, this is the sound I’m talking about right here. It’s such a good, full, satisfying sound. I appreciate the bluegrass elements, the western guitars, and the familiar almost-gospel chord progression. The combination is satisfying. It builds on the legacy of country music with a sound that I think Haggard and Waylon would enjoy. Also, as a dreamer who once decide to start a blog to share music with friends, this song also resonates with me personally. To still be doing what I love after that dream all those years ago… I feel blessed. This song reflects how my heart feels about it all, really.
Image courtesy: Wild Ponies IG
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