Another Side
Mpress, 2024
9/10
The companion record to Rachael Sage’s The Other Side, the songs here are reimagined, acoustic and welcome plenty of esteemed guests to the folk-pop fun.
The cozy spirit of “The Place Of Fun” starts the listen with Sage’s finger picking and expressive voice alongside Annalyse and Ryan’s vocals and mandolin complementing the beauty, and “Albatross” follows with Crys Matthews contributing to the lush harmonies of rich climate.
Landing in the middle, “The Other Side” uses harmonica, piano and vocals from Annalyse and Ryan, as a hint of gospel enters, while “Only You” flirts with orchestral nods via Amy Speace’s voice and the elegant strings that help create much intimacy.
Close to the end, “Breathe” recruits a Celtic mood, where fiddle, according and mandolin suit the captivating vocals from Maria McKee, and the last 2 tracks feature the inimitable Howard Jones, where a pair of versions of “I Made A Case” lands in sweeping balladry thanks to the sublime guitar, keys and strings and, of course, the poetic singing.
Much like everything Sage has done, this is a touching, melodic and soulful affair, and the often stripped back strategy only makes the listen that much more emotionally relatable.
Travels well with: Rachael Sage- Character; Rachael Sage- The Other Side