Laura Stevenson

On top of giving voice to tracks inspired by personal tribulations, ordeals endured by loved ones, the divisive state of the world, and uncertainty in general, singer/songwriter Laura Stevenson was pregnant with her first child when she recorded her sixth album. Titling the personal set Laura Stevenson, it was recorded in Marlboro, New York with producer John Agnello and features guitar work by friend and frequent collaborator Jeff Rosenstock. The track list opens with the volatile State, which alternates simmering, quieter verses (I stay polite…) with explosive rock choruses (It keeps me alive/Its easier, right?), though the verses accompaniment previews the noise. While not indicative of a ruminative album with several intimate, acoustic entries, that songs indie rock properties are revisited on songs like the more composed Dont Think About Me and the bouncy, infectious Sandstorm, a restless song that dares a partner to go ahead and break her heart (and let the sandstorm cover me). The tenderer Mary opts for elegant piano balladry, while Wretch offers a dreamy folk-rock with layered vocals that reflect on the passage (and damage) of time. The stylistically variable Laura Stevenson LP leaves listeners with Childrens National Transfer, a spare fingerstyle ballad that sees our narrator stepping out of the turmoil to pick up cigarettes and a cold drink (Another boring customer/Frivolously lingering at the soda fridge/Fingering through the rows of chips). Its a poignant reset to close a burdened but nonetheless tuneful set. As Sky Blue, Bad News speculates, Maybe Ill be better in a year. ~ Marcy Donelson