Lived vs. observed, real vs. imagined: The first halves of those clauses best describe Sadie Campbell’s full-length debut, Metamorphosis, which was released a few weeks ago. I’ve played it a fair bit since, always intending to spotlight it the next day.
The first thing one notices: her expressive vocals, which range from raspy to clear; they remind me of Melissa Etheridge one moment and Allison Moorer the next. The second thing: her lyrics, which trade in authenticity. She delves into the grist of life, from the natural high of love to the anxiety that accents modern life, plus embraces change and something many fear: growing older. The bluesy construct of the songs, which navigate the rock-country county line, is sure to turn ears, as well; there’s not a false note to be heard.
“What Love Can Do” opens the 11-song set with a paean to the power of love, while “Anxiety Gets Me” excoriates the apprehensions that hold us back. “Saved,” for its part, sheds light on at least one source for those worries: religion. “Keeping Space” provides an antidote, of sorts, by making room for new possibilities: “Wouldn’t trade a single scar/Broken string or broken heart/That’ll lead me to someone new/Who’ll leave me better off than you.” “Put Your Worry Down” revisits the fears and doubts that weigh on us; she’s singing to herself, really, but is singing to you and me, too. “Getting Older” ably captures and conveys the peace and wisdom that often comes with age; though thematically different, it resonates in much the same way as Allison Moorer’s “Heal”—which likely explains why it’s my favorite track.
That “Metamorphosis” follows “Getting Older” makes sense; the one thing the young often fail to understand is that change can come at any time in life. Campbell, who recently turned 40 (and, thus, is still young to me!), shares the wisdom she’s gleaned from overcoming the fears holding her back and re-routing her life: “I’d rather shed my skin/Than keep living he same life I’m in/Cause you can’t grow wings/Without a metamorphosis.”
The sweet and upbeat celebration of love that is “Even If We’re Lost” reminds me of many a 1980s’ Belinda Carlisle song; like those power pop classics, it sports a swirling melody and catchy chorus. “Second Chance” looks back to look forward, recognizing the mistakes she made (“I used to run so fast after broken people/I was trying to save/And it took me this long to learn that some/Will never change.” (Isn’t that life in a nutshell?) The rocking “Let Loose,” for its part, offers great advice: “Feel the magic of the moment/It’s gone before you know it.” The album closes with another poetic ode to change, “Leave It All Behind.”
In another era, these songs would be played on both mainstream rock radio and adult alternative stations alongside Melissa Etheridge and Bonnie Raitt on the former and Shelby Lynne and Allison Moorer on the latter. I’m not sure where they fit in today’s playlist-heavy world, but can attest it’s a great listen from start to finish, at home and in the car.
The Old Grey Cat 