Story’s End
Million Stars, 2026
10/10
The singer-songwriter Maria Taylor brings her inimitable voice to these deeply personal tracks that arrive after much soul searching, and there’s plenty of great help present, including some folks from her Omaha days.
The atmospheric title track opens with Taylor’s gripping voice, powerful keys and strategic drums in the moving climate, and “Shades Of Blue” follows with Macey Taylor’s playful bass that suits the inviting beat and flowing melodies of the indie-rock setting.
“Never Thought I’d Feel Now” arrives in the middle and is strong on ambience and enlists Louis Schefano’s punchy drums and Nik Freitas’ well timed voice amid soft and stylish songwriting that builds into a fuller delivery, while “Nathaniel” recruits Tim Gillespie’s flute and Lisa Fendelander’s keys alongside elegant strings for the dreamy album highlight.
Later on, “Everything Is Fine, My Loves” benefits from Ben Brodin’s cozy bass, Taylor’s gorgeous singing and frisky strumming, and “Change Is Coming Soon” exits with Tiffany Osborn’s eloquent violin, Mike Mogis’ programming and intricate guitar adding much to the heartfelt demeanor.
Having spent a lot of time listening to Azure Ray decades ago (a duo Taylor was in during the early 2000s), I knew I was going to enjoy this, but the emotional capacity, stirring strings and profound reflection sweeps in with so much vulnerability and forthrightness, it’s difficult to call this album anything but perfect.
Travels well with: Jenny Owen Youngs- Avalanche; Grant Lee-Phillips- In The Hour Of Dust