Review: ‘Lighten Up’ – Erin Rae

Erin Rae is one of the most promising artists on the Americana scene right now. Three years ago she released her critically acclaimed debut album, ‘Putting On Airs’ which earned her a nomination for Emerging Act Of The Year at the Americana Awards in 2019.

Now, she returns with the intimate and honest sophomore album, ‘Lighten Up’. The record opens with ‘Candy + Curry’, her whimsical and whispy vocals taking centre stage. As Rae says herself, it is sonically surprising. My favourite track on the record is ‘Drift Away’, lyrically much of the record has a focus on being present, enjoying the here and now and this track epitomizes that and reassures ones anxieties. Her vocals are at their very finest on this track.

Production wise, the record is solid too, each arrangement carefully crafted to suit the lyrical themes and Rae’s vocals. Another highlight is the lead single from the album, ‘Modern Woman’. It’s a song celebrating womanhood, the upbeat, toe-tappingly good track is backed by swirling pedal steel guitars in the chorus as she sings “Round up the old perceptions”. It’s a catchy and empowering tune.

To summarise, Erin Rae’s sophomore album capitalises on the inroads she made with her debut and solidifies her status as one of the most captivating Americana artists out there today.