24Our Music Magazine: October 2016

Page 36

The next few tracks are a sort of cool down from the intensity of the previous half, but is just as musically breathtaking. Watkins continues to explore genres on “Without a Word.” The song has a bluesy sound conveyed by organ and acoustic guitar accompaniment. Her delivery on this slow jam is very breathy; we know this is intentional and controlled after what we’ve heard she’s capable of with her voice in the previous tracks. This vocal choice is a smart way of word painting the “[leaving] without a word” by telling the story in a whisper, and that kind of thought is so appreciated. She then moves onto pure country blues on “The Truth Won’t Set Us Free.” In contrast, “Invisible” has a very simple arrangement, probably to keep the emphasis on the lyrics which are definitely her most heart wrenching on the album.

36 – 24OUR MUSIC

I believe they speak for themselves: I don't wanna be a weak one, holding on to not let go Calling out cause I don't want to be alone And I'm not looking for an easy way I'm looking for the truth Finally, “Tender-hearted” is the culmination of what Young in All the Wrong Ways is about. The track calls on the classic sounds of bluegrass and country behind Watkins’ amazing voice and thoughtful instrumentation. With this song, as well as with the work as a whole, Watkins proves that doesn’t take a lot of bells and whistles to make great music and she has embodied this concept in a stunning way.


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