Modern Age
Idol, 2021
10/10
A Texas and Italy based singer-songwriter who rarely stays in one genre too long, Vanessa Peters had to jump many hurdles to make Modern Age during a pandemic, but these powerful and punchy tunes thankfully came to fruition after being fleshed out in 4 different countries.
The title track starts the listen with loud and driving folk-rock, where Peters’ smooth singing guides the thoughtful, roots flavored, crunchy climate, and “Make Up My Mind” follows with breezy strumming that places some modern indie-rock nods into a dreamy setting that’s got some alt-rock bite, too.
Closer to the middle, “Hood Ornament” displays much melody as indie-pop moments enter her timeless appeal, while “The Band Played On” showcases a strong vocal range amid a soaring, charming brand of Americana. “The Weight Of This” then lands initially in ballad territory as a poetic, gorgeous delivery glides with a precise and powerful second half.
The strong songwriting continues to the end, where “The Try” sounds like an updated version of Fleetwood Mac on a steady diet of ‘90s rock, and “Still Got Time” exits the listen with organs making an impact on the dynamic and highly memorable finish to an incredible record.
Peters is in the company of her husband, Rip Rowan (drums, keys), Federico Ciancabilla (electric guitar), Matteo Patrone (keyboards) and Andrea Colicchia (bass), and together they create record of the year material. Whether you gravitate towards pop, rock, folk or Americana, you’re going to adore every minute here.
Travels well with: Hope Dunbar- Sweetheartland; Melody Duncan- Wolf Song