New Music Friday - 3/25/22

It’s another great week of new music…on Friday…So let’s get to the music. Here’s what I’m digging this week:

Singles of the Week:

“Shotgun” by Soccer Mommy

Diving into the 90s alternative sound with her latest catchy tune, Soccer Mommy (Sophie Allison) turns her lyrics to the joys of losing yourself to love. With a surf vibe of a guitar and choppy, processed drums leading the way, Allison’s distinct vocals ride overtop of the music. “I wanted it to capture the little moments in a relationship that stick with you.”

Album of the Week:

Humble Quest by Maren Morris

I know it’s still early in the year, but I’m predicting this land on my “Best of…” list for 2022. Maren Morris gained attention with her early country albums and then crossed over with songs like “The Middle” and others. This time around, she’s combining the best of both worlds with fantastic songwriting and storytelling.

She could have easily gone the more pop route and nobody would have blamed her (well, maybe Nashville) but Morris was feeling so grounded by monumental changes in her life — becoming a mother during the pandemic, losing her producer to cancer and the racial reckoning in America — that the music that leapt out wasn't exactly club bangers.

The opener, “Circles Around This Town” is a spectacular song. The song's concept is based on Morris's journey to country success, describing her path of moving to Nashville, Tennessee and signing a recording contract. It’s a bit of a throwback to her first album with a sweet groove, perfect for driving circles around your town.

Another standout is my daughter’s favorite, “Background Music”. It’s Morris pondering life and our time here on earth. The conclusion is the same: We won't live forever, but it's what we do with our time that matters. It’s a gorgeous, swaying track that allows her vocals and lyrics to shine.

The playfulness of “Tall Guys” is fun and should be a concert and karaoke sing-along for years to come. Then there’s a gorgeous “Hummingbird” which features Morris’ her two-year old son, Hayes practicing his first word (“Mama”). The gentle country ode to new motherhood was written with the Love Junkies, the all-star songwriting trio of Hillary Lindsey, Lori McKenna and Liz Rose.

It’s time to recognize the power of this tiny powerhouse (Morris is listed at 5’1”). Her songwriting and voice continue to mature but are relatable. A sign of a great songwriter who cares for her fans and family.