Country-pop singer-songwriter and guitarist Casi Joy unveils her debut album, Miles and Maybes, in partnership with ONErpm.
Inspired by a lyric from her single, “Under the Hood,” the song’s conception provided the framework for Casi’s first long player. Casi shares, “When I got home with the demo, I knew we had something special. [I] immediately knew an album would be centered around it.”
Along with her appearance on NBC’s The Voice, a massive following on social media, and millions of views on YouTube, Casi has shared the stage with artists such as Maren Morris, Keith Urban, Montgomery Gentry, and LOCASH. In 2022, she signed with booking agency Mint Talent Group, joining a roster of legendary touring acts like Art Garfunkel and the Allman Brothers band.
Encompassing 14 tracks, Miles and Maybes begins with “Under the Hood,” opening on low-slung, emerging tones, followed by taking on plush layers of luscious country-pop. Casi’s evocative voice, at once velvety and edgy, imbues the lyrics with tender yet potent savors.
Speaking subjectively, entry points include “The Money,” blending tasty flavors of blues and country with hints of funky soul into a tune thrumming with tight, sleazy energy.
Talking about “The Money,” Casi says, “I wanted to write something kind of sarcastic and lighthearted, but it is about a very real subject, and it was real to me at the time as well when I wrote it.”
A personal favorite because of its gleaming guitars and vibrant rhythm, “Partners in Time” allows Casi to strut the full range of her delicious voice, with its rounded contours and charming, light rasp.
The best part of “Partners in Time” is when, on the chorus, Casi sings, “I’ll be Bonnie, you be Clyde / Let’s lock this down without the crime.”
Whereas “Me Myself & My” reveals profound intimacy, melancholy, and heartache, traveling on a slowly undulating rhythm topped by Casi’s poignant vocals.
Dripping with twangy coloration, “Namaste” features straight-ahead country aromas riding a contagious rhythm and a sizzling guitar as Casi’s enthusiastic voice gives the lyrics zest and flair.
Another gem, “Maybelline” rolls out on effervescent colors, bubbling with charming dynamics as Casi’s drawling voice infuses the lyrics with delightful earworm allure.
The final track, “Everything’s Fine,” showcases an upbeat rhythm, sparkling leitmotifs, and ironic lyrics, relating a lighthearted perspective of life’s trials and tribulations.
Miles and Maybes is superb, full of enticing country-pop essence, captivating rhythms, and the arresting vocals of Casi Joy.