Brandi Carlile, a name synonymous with soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics, has once again captivated audiences with her latest album, ‘Returning to Myself.’ After years of collaborations and genre-bending explorations, Carlile embarks on a personal journey of rediscovery. This album, marked by introspection and unique sonic landscapes, promises to be her most distinct yet. FYM News delves into the heart of ‘Returning to Myself,’ exploring its themes, collaborations, and the creative process that shaped this remarkable musical endeavor.
Carlile’s musical evolution has been nothing short of extraordinary. From her early days in Seattle’s vibrant music scene to gracing stages worldwide, she has consistently pushed boundaries and defied expectations. ‘Returning to Myself’ represents a pivotal moment in her career, a testament to her artistic growth and unwavering commitment to authenticity. Join us as we dissect the album’s key tracks, unravel the stories behind the songs, and celebrate the genius of Brandi Carlile.
The Ever-Growing Musical Family Tree
Over the past few years, Brandi Carlile’s musical family tree has expanded rapidly. Since her last solo album in 2021, she has collaborated with numerous artists, including folk icon Joni Mitchell. Carlile has also produced records for fellow Washingtonian Judy Collins. This period of collaboration and artistic exploration has profoundly influenced her musical direction, leading her to seek a more introspective and personal approach in ‘Returning to Myself.’
Carlile acknowledges the joy she finds in joining forces with other musicians, stating, ‘One of my favorite things to do with my voice is to wrap it around another voice and watch it change.’ However, she also recognizes the importance of reconnecting with her own artistic identity. This desire to return to her roots and rediscover her solo voice serves as the driving force behind ‘Returning to Myself.’
The Making of ‘Returning to Myself’
The creation of ‘Returning to Myself’ involved a unique blend of serendipity and intentionality. Carlile initially planned to unplug and reconnect with herself as an artist after a whirlwind of collaborative projects. She intended to work with Andrew Watt, known for his work with rock legends. However, a chance meeting with Aaron Dessner of The National altered her course.
After performing with Joni Mitchell, Carlile met with Dessner at his studio in New York’s Hudson Valley. This casual meetup unexpectedly sparked a creative fire, resulting in the album’s title track. Carlile describes the experience as a surprise, stating, ‘When I met Aaron, it just took me by surprise. He was the right thing for me at that time.’
Collaboration and Self-Discovery: A Delicate Balance
While collaboration has been a hallmark of Carlile’s career, the making of ‘Returning to Myself’ presented a new challenge. She found it difficult to write to riffs created by her longtime bandmates and songwriting partners, Tim and Phil Hanseroth. This shift in dynamic led to a period of introspection and a reevaluation of her creative process.
In a departure from the past, Carlile has sole writing credit on four of the album’s ten songs. She acknowledges the Hanseroth twins’ support, stating, ‘Their most valuable contribution to me personally was that they were totally willing to not contribute and still be just as supportive of me as they always were.’ This willingness to step aside allowed Carlile to explore her individual artistic vision.
‘Returning to Myself’: A Record of Reinvention and Rediscovery
‘Returning to Myself’ is a testament to Brandi Carlile’s ability to reinvent herself while staying true to her artistic core. The album showcases a diverse range of musical styles, from intimate singer-songwriter moments to exhilarating rock anthems. With the help of co-producers Andrew Watt and Aaron Dessner, Carlile has crafted a sound that is both familiar and refreshingly new.
The album’s highlights include ‘A Woman Oversees,’ a folk-soul ballad illuminated by SistaStrings’ backing vocals, and ‘Church & State,’ a politically charged rock song that channels the spirit of U2 and Pearl Jam. These tracks exemplify Carlile’s willingness to experiment and push the boundaries of her musical expression.
Hometown Album Rollout and Regional Attachment
Carlile’s decision to launch ‘Returning to Myself’ with a series of Seattle events underscores her deep connection to her roots. She reflects on her early days playing in local bars and restaurants, busking at Pike Place Market. These experiences shaped her as a musician and instilled in her a profound appreciation for her home region.
Carlile expresses a sense of nostalgia for the time before music became her job, when songwriting was a source of pure joy and adrenaline. She sought to recapture that feeling while making ‘Returning to Myself,’ resulting in an album that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.
Performing with Soundgarden and Rock Hall Induction
Brandi Carlile will join Soundgarden for their Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction. Carlile has long admired the Seattle rock giants. She recalls a time when she invited them to participate in Record Store Day, highlighting her deep respect for their music and legacy.
The upcoming performance with Soundgarden marks a full-circle moment for Carlile, solidifying her place in Seattle’s rich musical history.
Final Thoughts: A Bold New Chapter for Brandi Carlile
Brandi Carlile’s ‘Returning to Myself’ marks a bold new chapter in her career. The album is a testament to her artistic growth, her willingness to experiment, and her unwavering commitment to authenticity. With its diverse musical styles and introspective lyrics, ‘Returning to Myself’ is sure to resonate with longtime fans and new listeners alike.
The album reaffirms Carlile’s status as one of the most compelling and innovative singer-songwriters of our time. As she continues to evolve and push boundaries, we eagerly anticipate what the future holds for this extraordinary artist. ‘Returning to Myself’ is not just an album; it’s a journey of self-discovery, a celebration of collaboration, and a testament to the enduring power of music.
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