Sweetheartland
Self-Released, 2021
9/10
A Nebraska resident who is well versed in folk and Americana sounds, this sophomore album from Hope Dunbar spans many different moods and textures, where you’re as likely to laugh out loud just as you are mull things over alongside her well thought out version of Prairie rock.
The title track starts the listen with warm twang as Dunbar’s radiant, soaring pipes guide the emotive roots rocker, and this approach continues to the spirited harmonica and upbeat pace of the gritty “What Were You Thinking?”, as well as the organ friendly and gospel influenced climate of “Woman Like Me”.
Deeper still, the playful grooves of “Dog Like You” help cultivate a bluesy atmosphere as Dunbar displays an impressive vocal range, while “Evacuate” benefits from vivid storytelling as a darker presence enters the folk tinted and ebullient album highlight.
Further yet, the bare keys of “Dust” build into a country rocker that’s not short on melody and an anthemic appeal, and “More” finishes the listen with a charming Americana rocker that’s also soulful, playful and unforgettable- much like the entire listen.
Recorded in Nashville with Zack Smith (Smooth Hound Smith), this is the sound of an artist coming into her own, and her midwestern influence to songs that can parallel the greatness of those that inspire her- Patty Griffin, Joni Mitchell and Simon & Garfunkel- will make a fan out anyone willing to listen.
Travels well with: Melody Duncan- Wolf Song; Julian Taylor- The Ridge