After she won American Songwriter competition, Caroline Spence released her first album Somehow back in 2015. This year, her debut got its successor titled Spades and Roses and it is equally attractive continuation of the story of this musician who lives in Nashville. She grew up on the tradition of folk and Americana with strong influence of American author scene. Caroline is another top-notch artist in this time of expansion of innovative new powers.
Her music is under the strong influence of country and Americana, meaning, there are emphasized acoustic guitars, percussions, even mandolin and banjo. Although the last two instruments were more present on the first album, Spades and Roses also welcomes them through few momentums. This record also includes some pop moments, but that is still not hyped or over-produced, rather in a subtle country tone. Caroline’s vocal is a candid country vocal, profuse and light. Supported by mentioned instruments, her voice comes off as fresh and powerful. It’s obvious that she could deliver more challenging stuff, but the most of the album goes in melodic equanimity, without any extremes or excesses.
The concept of the album is love and it is a typical Americana approach to love – no pathetic metaphors. Direct and straightforward perspective of love themes gives an impression of honesty and authenticity. Myself-form of the lyrics adds up to the value, as Caroline sings about her own experiences.
The album is opened with intense Heart of Somebody. In this song, singer deals with personal success and personal fails through a strong country sound. All The Beds I’ve Made is lamenting ballade with accentuated percussions, while Caroline shows her true romantic side on Slow Dancer. She also speaks up about gender equality on Softball and refers to loss on Wishing Well. The album is closed by a beautiful ballade Goodbye Bygones, a track of interesting concept and mellifluous sound resembling the best days of Emmylou Harris.
Caroline Spence is on the right path. She intensified her personal story. Let’s see If she will stay on the same path in the following years.
