Caitlin Canty
Motel Bouquet
Caitlin Canty is part of the new breed of traditional Nashville artists prospering almost as a reaction to the pop leanings of much of country radio these days.
The Vermont native is an established solo artist and erstwhile member of Down Like Silver with fellow singer-songwriter Peter Bradley Adams. She released the well-received Reckless Skyline in 2015 which garnered critical acclaim and numerous TV and film placements, but the quality of Motel Bouquet should take her solo career up a notch or two.
Songs like “River Alone” confirm the approach – there’s no new country pop fluff here, its true Americana, with plaintive fiddle and dark undertones to the lyrics. First single and opener ‘Take Me for a Ride” continues that theme with a sassy, memorable melody as well as some brilliant lead guitar work.
The mid-tempo and pedal steel-infused “Time Rolls By” has a traditional country vibe, while the moody, atmospheric “Who” showcases Canty’s gentle yet striking voice, quietly devastating lyrics and the earthy production of Noam Pikelny.
“Leaping Out” is more upbeat yet has an old-school twist, while the title track is probably the album’s highlight, once more affirming Canty’s beautiful voice and ear for a melody.
Anyone looking for some true, authentic Americana could do worse than check out Motel Bouquet and on this evidence, we’ll be hearing a lot more from Caitlin Canty in future.