Babygirl
Whatever’s Clever, 2020
9/10
A Brooklyn songstress who just recently moved to Nashville, Cf Watkins knows her way around a tune that’s equally Americana and pop-friendly, as she pens a sophomore album that’s both vulnerable and powerful and certainly not without radiant storytelling that draws us in immediately.
Watkins starts the album with the percussively strong and hazy “The Tell”, where her inimitable vocals glide across the playful and warm setting, and “Changeable” follows with much atmosphere as intimacy anchors the vibrant tone that’s Americana tinted.
Near the middle, “Holly” offers a quicker pace of pretty song craft that soars with soothing backing vocals and a chorus you won’t forget anytime soon, while “Come Around” brings a stylish delivery of expressive singing, subtle but effective brass and a charming dreaminess. “Westfield”, the album standout, then recruits country influences amid timeless beauty and well timed fiddle that makes a big impression.
As we get to the end, “New Hampshire” showcases Watkins’ versatile pipes amid breezy melodies and strong songwriting, and “White Nights” exits the listen gently with creative folk nods and much beauty.
Watkins possesses a soulful, moving and often comforting talent, and Babygirl is a superb 2nd album that, if there’s any justice, will make her a very recognizable name in the area of singer-songwriters that bridge country and pop together.
Travels well with: Sarah Morris- All Mine; Mary Lambert- Grief Creature