Album Review – Alice Wallace – “Here I Am”

2024-07-05
Album Review – Alice Wallace – “Here I Am”

Discovering the Captivating Artistry of Alice Wallace: A Journey Beyond the Mainstream

In the shadows of the mainstream, where the true musical gems often reside, Alice Wallace has emerged as a modern marvel, captivating audiences with her exceptional songwriting and unparalleled vocal prowess. This California-born artist, who has recently made her home in Nashville, has been quietly honing her craft, patiently waiting for the right moment to showcase her talents to the world. With the release of her latest album, "Here I Am," Wallace is poised to step into the spotlight, offering a compelling and intricate collection of songs that showcase the full breadth of her artistic abilities.

Unveiling the Captivating Artistry of Alice Wallace

Mastering the Art of Yodeling and Songwriting

Alice Wallace's musical journey is one of remarkable versatility and skill. While her prowess as a yodeler may initially surprise and delight audiences, it is her exceptional songwriting and vocal abilities that truly set her apart. Described as a "modern marvel of music," Wallace's songs are imbued with a depth and emotional resonance that captivates listeners, leaving them in awe of her talents.

Wallace's previous work, including her collaboration with fellow songwriter Caitlin Cannon in the project Side Pony, has showcased her ability to craft California-inspired country songs that resonate with the heart and soul. However, with her move to Nashville four years ago, Wallace has been meticulously curating a new collection of songs that she hopes will propel her career to new heights. The result is "Here I Am," an album that not only showcases her superior songwriting skills but also the unparalleled power and control of her voice.

Exploring the Depths of "Here I Am"

"Here I Am" is a veritable showcase of all the elements that have made Alice Wallace a beloved figure among her devoted fans. The album effortlessly blends genres, incorporating elements of country, Americana, and even adult contemporary, creating a sound that is both familiar and refreshingly unique.

One of the standout tracks on the album, "Looking," co-written with Eliot Bronson, explores the intricate dimensions of time, attention, and the fleeting moments that can determine the course of a lasting relationship. The soaring vocals and emotive lyrics of "Letting It Go" showcase Wallace's exceptional vocal abilities, captivating listeners with her raw power and emotional depth.

While some of the songs on "Here I Am" lean more towards the country and Americana spectrum, such as the waltz-inspired "I Was Wrong" and the steel guitar-driven "When This Song Ends," the album's strength lies in its refusal to be confined by genre boundaries. Instead, Wallace's focus remains firmly on showcasing her exceptional writing and the expansive range of her voice.

Embracing a Modernized Sound

One of the notable aspects of "Here I Am" is its embrace of a more modernized sound, which may surprise some of Wallace's more traditional country music fans. The album features collaborations with top Nashville talent, including drummer Nick Buda and Grammy-winning guitarist Kenny Greenberg, resulting in a production that has been described as having a "90s Sarah McLachlan vibe" in spots.

This shift towards a more adult contemporary sound is not a criticism, but rather an observation and a warning to those who may be expecting a more traditional country music experience. While the album may venture outside the typical sonic boundaries championed by some, it is a testament to Wallace's artistic vision and her willingness to explore new creative avenues.

The title track, "Here I Am," is not so much an introduction to Alice Wallace as it is a song of existential musings, showcasing the poetic authority of her writing. The album as a whole may feel a little too "clean and perfect" for some, with a lack of grit that could have added a more organic and real feel. However, this decision may have been intentional, catering to a specific set of listeners who appreciate the polished and refined nature of the production.

Recognizing the Artistry and Deserved Acclaim

Regardless of one's personal preferences, it is undeniable that "Here I Am" is a work of exceptional quality. The album's meticulous craftsmanship and the sheer power of Wallace's vocals make it a compelling listen, even for those who may not initially be drawn to its more contemporary sound.

In a music industry that still struggles with true meritocracy, Alice Wallace's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the unwavering belief in one's own artistry. As the world begins to wake up to the captivating talents of this modern musical marvel, it is time to recognize that "here she is" – a force to be reckoned with in the ever-evolving landscape of American music.

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