Melanie A. Davis’ new album “Honey Locust” features 13 soul-stirring tracks that blend jazz, folk, and doo-wop influences. She explores the complex realities underlying the American dream through uninhibited vocals and minimal instrumentation.
The title track “Honey Locust” opens the album with an ethereal vibe. Melanie’s rich, smoky vocals take center stage, backed by folksy acoustics. “Lightbulb Stars” chimes with acoustics and sweet vocal harmonies to evoke a childlike sense of wonder. Davis’ vocals dance playfully, finding beauty in the piece. “Mrs. America ” has a retro type of sound. Backing vocalists croon while Davis leads with clever wordplay. The dreamy “Robin” features twinkling electric guitars amid Melanie’s storytelling vocals. Her influential lyrics and melodic stylings, paired with minimal instrumentation, create an imaginative soundscape. The brilliant “Eclipse” is more of a bittersweet ballad. Her effusive vocals have a hint of nostalgia, accompanied by melancholy acoustics.
Melanie’s vocals float dreamily over a sea of shimmering strings on “Honey”, stimulating nocturnal wonder. Triumphant instrumentation backs Melanie’s deep, wistful, and exquisite vocals on “The Rind”. “The River” sweeps by with Melanie’s vocals gliding over an acoustic rush, mirroring the brisk yet peaceful flow of a majestic waterway. “See You Around” finds Davis’ soulful vocals accompanied by an uplifting tune. Her light and vibrant voice feels like a salve for the soul. “Stranger” pulls at the listener’s heartstrings with its luminous romanticism and wistful tone. Her soulful vocals lament over a chilling musical accompaniment, evoking the nostalgia of lost love.
The whimsical “What’s It For?” encapsulates the album’s playful yet poignant spirit. Davis’ airy voice floats above the lighthearted instrumentation, imbuing the cheerful tune with thoughtful longing. The glorious album closes with the folk masterpiece “Magnolia,” a stunning celebration of Melanie’s glowing vocals and emotive lyrics. The simple yet striking instrumentals allow her expressive phrasing to elevate the bittersweet feelings conveyed by her beautifully crafted words.
“Honey Locust” showcases Davis’ vocal talent and her ability to infuse meaning into melodic simplicity. She explores life’s complicated realities with empathy, whimsy, and heart. Though the instrumentation is often minimal and similar across tracks, Davis’ storytelling and range of moods keep the listening experience fresh and engaging. Even listeners who may not typically enjoy folk music are likely to find something to appreciate in her art. “Honey Locust” is well worth a stream on Spotify. Listen to it, follow Melanie, and stay up to date on future releases by checking out her social media profiles to hear more of her radiant voice and poetic songwriting.
