Cottonwood
Self-Released, 2022
8/10
A very nature-esque listen from the singer-songwriter, guitarist and pianist Megan Bee, the substantial tracks here welcome a handful of players who contribute pedal steel, fiddle, upright bass and banjo, plus many more, to illuminate the vivid storytelling and raw tone.
“Cottonwood Leaves” opens the listen with soft accordion and warm acoustic guitar to complement Bee’s soft, gorgeous singing in the calm atmosphere, and “Used To Be” follows with a very poetic approach, as soulful backing vocals add even more appeal to the timeless folk climate.
Deeper into the 14 tracks, “Never Known” showcases Barefoot McCoy’s sublime piano playing in the bare landscape, while “Rolls Away” recruits Ben Ko’s soothing cello amid the stirring delivery.
Near to the end, the fuller “Fast Johnny” showcases a more firm version of Bee’s rootsy, folksy formula, and “Fall Down” exits the listen with Bee handling piano in a sparse but impactful finish of sublime intimacy.
This is Bee’s 4th studio album, and it’s a remarkable body of work that takes influence from Appalachian folk and the softer side of indie-rock. You may have never heard of Megan Bee before listening to Cottonwood, but you won’t forget the name when you’re done.
Travels well with: Stacy Antonel- Always The Outsider; Silver Lake 66- The Space Between Us