Sloan Wainwright - Upside Down & Under My Heart
2011, Derby Disc
2011, Derby Disc
In the beginning, God created Loudon
Wainwright, III, and it was good. Later came Rufus and Martha, and then Lucy
Wainwright-Roche, and all was well for a new generation. Yet quietly, in the
midst of all this musical creation, another Wainwright voice emerged. Forged of
earth and sky, the deep contralto of Sloan Wainwright arose from the earth.
Many stopped and stared in surprise at this unknown commodity, hewn more from
the classical bedrock of folk music than any of her extended family. Now, six
albums and many accolades on, Sloan Wainwright continues as the quiet musical
bedrock that serves as the contrast for a wildly talented and creative family.
2011 saw the release of Sloan Wainwright's sixth album, Upside Down &
Under My Heart, chronicles the aftermath of the death of her husband
George, and noble effort of a human heart to overcome, heal and begin anew.
Presence is a gift in an artist. It cannot be learned or taught, but the natural talent can be developed in one so endowed. Sloan Wainwright's presence on Upside Down & Under My Heart is preternatural, carrying a sense of spirit and truth that is compelling. Without artifice or affectation, Wainwright bears her heart in ten original songs that cut to the meat of human suffering, healing and survival. "Live Out The Best Of Your Life" is a mantra, of sorts, a challenge to wake up each day, put your feet on the floor and go on. Simple in sentiment and deep in meaning, it's the perfect opener, delivered in Wainwright's clear, natural voice. "Upside Down & Under My Heart" is a sweet country ballad written from an expectant mother to her unborn child. The almost melancholy arrangement is in counterpoint to the peaceful, loving words that pass from one to the other, in a moment of beauty so simple it shines. "Here I Am" plays like a song of becoming; of growing up, or of emerging from darkness into a new sense of self. Once again, Wainwright eschews fancy dress for simple truth, allowing the emerging beauty of the human heart striving to be itself shine through.
"I Can See Now" is a
simple declaration; a matter of fact, beautiful poetic statement of account of
one, again, emerging from darkness. Similarly, "My Song" is about
establishing yourself once again. In the context of the album, it can be seen
as re-claiming the sense of self that was shared for so long and then torn
asunder. In this moment, Wainwright finds healing, even as the pain of loss
continues to abate but slowly. "I Wear The Ring" plays in many
layers, sounding at first like an expectant bride, but perhaps a node to the
past rather than the future. The allegory of the road will not be lost on those
who make their living from music, although here the road is more mystical than
real. "Holland" represents a sense of moving on, finding the power to
begin again amidst new scenery. The story is told alongside a stunning melody,
simple in its beauty yet weighty in its power. "Little Bit Right"
explores the struggle to feel okay about feeling okay, and Wainwright concludes
with "I Am Free", a gone-but-not-forgotten anthem that declares
health and happiness in the gift of the time left.
In many ways, Sloan Wainwright comes
full circle on Upside Down & Under My Heart. What doesn't change
throughout the album is the simple power of lyrics, and the utter beauty of the
melodies she pares them with. Wainwright builds simple parts into sublime
creations while exploring the depths of human pain and recovery without malice
or spite; a refreshing approach on modern music, popular or otherwise. Upside
Down & Under My Heart is too mature to be truly popular, unfortunately,
but it is a wondrous work that deserves to remembered and recognized when the
year-end lists come around.
Rating: 4.5 Stars (Out of 5)
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