Embark on an intimate journey with Micki Balder’s debut release ‘this is how it goes,’ a folk masterpiece
In the hushed realms of contemporary folk, Colorado’s indie musician Micki Balder gently cradles the soul with lyrics that resonate through the ages.
Her debut release, “this is how it goes,” slated for September 17th, is a testament to the enduring magic of acoustic storytelling.
Balder’s music, though starkly plain in language – akin to this listeners favourite folk classics – artfully navigates the complexities of human emotions and experiences.
Drawing from influences reminiscent of Sara Bareilles and the ethereal allure of the Weepies, Balder’s artistry unites audiences in a collective embrace of life’s bittersweet moments.
Balder, a Denver native, crafts her songs with unvarnished vocals and gentle fingerpicking, creating a stripped-down canvas for poignant tales.
She finds solace in Colorado’s intimate mountain town stages, cherishing the sense of belonging and unity that permeates these communities.
“this is how it goes” was recorded at Hoffman’s Melody Shop in Colorado, with Matt Hoffman as producer and mixing engineer, and mastered by Anna Frick of Ally Sound.
The album opens with “A Beautiful Place,” a pure dose of country folk that sets the stage for introspection, longing, and deep contemplation. Balder’s metaphorical poetics shine as she finds beauty even in moments of missing someone.
“Undone” introduces a touch of violin, delivering a production that makes the listener feel like they’re witnessing something firsthand. “Green With Glory” echoes the sparse instruments and vocal delivery reminiscent of Bill Callahan, unveiling a stunning layering of instruments.
“Tired” brings a modern mood with timeless folk sensibilities, akin to the sounds of Beth Orton or early Suzanne Vega. “Back and Forth” showcases unique vocals offset with guitar picking, maintaining the spaciousness that pervades the album.
“Milk and Honey” offers a stunning mix of Joni Mitchell and Suzanne Vega in tone and delivery, evoking nostalgia for simpler times. “Before I Go” carries a resonance akin to the album’s opener, guiding the listener down a river of life.
“Whiplash” delves into the complexities of impermanent love, echoing the universal experience of repeating mistakes. In “Lookin for You,” Balder’s distinctive songwriting and voice paint vivid lyrical landscapes.
The album’s closer, “Take It or Leave It,” featuring Courtlyn Carpenter of NPR-favorite Sturtz on cello, opens with melodic swells that evoke a sense of melancholy. This duet perfectly wraps up the album, encapsulating the ups and downs of collaboration in love.
In “this is how it goes,” Micki Balder weaves a tapestry of intimate reflections, inviting us all to find beauty in imperfection and solace in shared experiences. Kudos to Hoffman’s Melody Shop for delivering a work of art that resonates through the ages.
Album Track List:
- A Beautiful Place
- Undone
- Green with Glory
- Tired
- Back and Forth
- Milk and Honey
- Before I Go
- Whiplash
- Lookin for You
- Take It or Leave It
