The multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter songwriter Rachael Sage has impressed us with 15 solo albums to date, and here she proves just how much she excels in a full band environment, too. The songs are still very much indebted to her folk-pop ways, but not without plenty of eclectic influences present as well.
The funky and lush “Just Enough” begins with Sage’s romantic voice alongside organ extraordinaire Rob Curto's playfulness, and the title track follows with Sage’s warm guitar and expressive singing, plus Andy Mac's light drums.
Further into Side A, “Belong To You” allows for Sage’s poetic keys and graceful vocals to be complemented by Dave Eggar’s cello, while “Colorized World” offers a lush and textured moment of chamber and folk ideas that blend together via sophistication and melodic ideas.
The back half starts with a charming cover of Buddy Holly’s “Everyday” that’s emotional and mature. “Kill The Clock” then embraces plenty of pop moments in the colorful album highlight, though the thicker guitar of “Nexus” aligns well with the cinematic strings for a close second. “Le Reve” actually leaves the vocals out, instead recruits the world famous clarinetist David Krakauer for a very diverse instrumental.
Sage adds to her impressive catalog of music with this wise, clever and compassionate effort. The songs never shy away from melody, and topics like inclusivity, non-violence and environmental awareness are expressed with insight and much thought. Other musicians in attendance include Kelly Halloran (violin), Doug Yowell (percussion), James Mastro (guitar), Mikhail Pivovarov (bass) and Annalyse & Ryan (vocals) for what should be a must listen in today’s challenging climate that often lacks empathy.
If you’re lucky enough to score the deluxe vinyl edition, you’ll get orange wax and original paintings, too.