Before The Machine
Self-Released, 2024
9/10
A singer-songwriter from the Bay Area, Zoe FitzGerald Carter brings alongs some excellent musicians for these very diverse songs that are inspired by a world before smart phones.
The title track starts the listen with Carter’s warm voice alongside Jeri Jones’ cozy guitar and Greg Sankovich’s fluid keys for the eloquent, folk presence, and “Magic Pill” follows with a hint of ruggedness, where Paul Olguin’s skilled bass and Dawn Richardson’s agile drumming complements the dreamy moments.
“Starlight Blue” lands in the middle, and uses Lila Sklar’s well timed violin amid the poetic singing, while “Let’s Just Stay Friends” place Erik Jakobsen on flugelhorn for the distinct intimacy
Close to the end, “Staying Home Tonight” bring gritty guitar via Michael Papenburg and a harmonica solo for some rootsy flavor, and “Lockdown” exits with Pam Delgado’s strategic backing vocals for much reflection about Covid times.
A listen with something for everyone, we’re treated to folk, country, rock, jazz and blues ideas, as Carter pens much beauty, some rawness and a whole of timelessness.
Travels well with: Jefferson Berry- Prairie Fire; Rachel Garlin- The Ballad Of Madelyne & Therese