Nashville-based singer-songwriter Alaina Stacey releases her new EP, DAY, the second EP in her series of three – DAWN, DAY, and DUSK. DAY was recorded and produced by Evan Redwine in Nashville and Brian Deck in Chicago
Stacey explains, “These are songs that I’ve written over the last decade. They don’t all make sense on the same album. Instead, I like to imagine them reflecting different sonic and emotional moments in my life.”
Originally from Chicago, Stacey grew up surrounded by music. Later, at the age of 18, she relocated to Nashville, where she toured and recorded with country trio Maybe April. Then she decided to add solo work to her resume, developing her distinctive sound, a blend of ‘90s and early ‘000s country with hints of other elements.
Encompassing seven tracks, entry points on the EP include the opener, “I Would,” featuring shimmering guitars and a delicious, creamy flow vaguely reminiscent of Fleetwood Mac infused with country flavors. Stacey’s voice conjures up suggestions of Stevie Nicks, lush and oh-so evocative.
“I Would” was co-written with Sam Gyllenhaal. Stacey shares, “Sam had reached out as a stranger through the internet, so naturally, I met him alone in his basement. I was trying to create new starts and say yes to new things, so I went over there, and I opened my heart to the possibility of a new beginning. Sam met me there one hundred percent.”
A galloping-lite rhythm gives “Break Your Heart” a light bouncing cadence as Stacey narrates her femme fatale intention, using her lusciously tinted voice, along with radiant harmonies, to caution her admirer. With its slower mid-tempo rhythm, “Oh Henry” allows Stacey to reveal the warm, delicate side of her voice. A crying guitar adds to the melancholy feel of the melody.
Stripped down to echoing harmonic textures, “Over You,” a bluesy country tune closes the EP. There’s a tasty, raw sensation to the song, highlighting Stacey’s nuanced vocals and her adept phrasing.
Made up of both gentle, sad songs and more upbeat songs, DAY shines a spotlight on the redolent voice of Alaina Stacey.
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