Windows
Self-Released, 2018
8/10
A West Coast singer-songwriter with a healthy set of pipes and a varied delivery that embraces alt-rock, R&B and soulful nods, Amie Penwell is capable of both intimate and adventurous moods on the well thought out song craft that is Windows.
Penwell starts the listen with the title track, where moody strings and warm percussion complement her soft, expressive pipes in the emotive and elegant atmosphere, and “Mercy” follows with a soulful approach as sublime musicianship guides the stirring climate.
At the midpoint, “Unstoppable” displays timeless songwriting amid breezy melodies as Penwell’s enthralling vocals pull us in to the reflective tone, while “Traces” resides closer to balladry where graceful keys and gentle percussion complement the breathy singing. “Mask”, one of the album’s best, then sits firmly in piano balladry as much emotion is present and appreciated.
Close to the end, “Field Of Light” yields much intimacy in its bare but impactful landscape, and “Mothers Piano” exits the listen with a brief but moving piano instrumental that reiterates just how much depth and sincerity Penwell delivers.
You’re likely to hear traces of influence from legends like Melissa Etheridge, Ray LaMontague or even Peter Gabriel here, and Penwell’s keen sense of songwriting certainly has the capacity to run parallel to those names in terms of timelessness and beauty, too.
Travels well with: CF Watkins- Babygirl; Sarah Morris- All Mine