Say What You Like
Self-Released, 2023
8/10
The Canadian songwriter Doug Paisley sorted through 250 unrecorded songs for this first album since 2018, and it’s a timeless folk affair that’s full of honest and relatable songwriting.
The title track wastes no time making an impression with its frisky guitar playing and soft singing that’s got some playful rhythm to it, and “Sometimes It’s So Easy” follows with a breezy, retro-folk quality that welcomes gorgeous vocal harmonies.
Halfway through, the lovely “Almost” is poetic and hushed amid the twinkling guitar and crisp drums, while “If I Wanted To” thumps with some country flavor that’s dance floor friendly and comes with a hint of grit.
Close to the end, “You Turn My Life Around” offers a gentle and dreamy album highlight of charming melody and personal lyricism, and “Old Hometown” exits with thumping drums and a more lush backdrop of tuneful folk-rock.
Paisley released his debut 15 years ago, and his forthright and soul searching songs resonate with a universal appeal across these 11 really enjoyable tracks.
Travels well with: Bobby Cool- Family Time; Jill Barber- Homemaker