Album Review: Sugarcane Jane “On a Mission”
Sugarcane Jane’s “On a Mission” LP, released under Admiral Bean Records, encapsulates the essence of Americana with its rich acoustic textures and heartfelt storytelling. The album kicks off with “Try to Make it Look Like Me,” a track that immediately sets a tone of authenticity and introspection, characterized by intricate guitar work and earnest vocals.
This opener leads seamlessly into “Love Moved Her Along” and the title track “On a Mission,” both of which showcase the duo’s knack for crafting melodies that are both catchy and emotionally resonant.
“The Candle” and “Burn” further exemplify Sugarcane Jane’s ability to blend traditional folk elements with a modern sensibility, offering lyrics that speak to universal themes of love, loss, and redemption. The instrumentation throughout these tracks is thoughtfully arranged, creating a sound that is both full and intimate.
Album Review: Sugarcane Jane “On a Mission”
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“Fly on the Wall” and “Put it in Your Pocket” lighten the mood with their upbeat rhythms and playful lyrics, demonstrating the duo’s versatility and adeptness at engaging listeners with a variety of moods and messages. “Through the Day” and “We Live” return to a more reflective tone, with the latter standing out as a poignant anthem of perseverance and hope.
“Spirit Push” and “Last Day” close the album on a high note, with the former offering an uplifting message of inner strength and the latter providing a contemplative conclusion to the journey. “Last Day,” the shortest track on the album, leaves a lasting impression with its simplicity and depth, encapsulating the album’s overarching themes of reflection and resilience.
“On a Mission” is a masterfully crafted LP, produced by Anthony Crawford, that showcases Sugarcane Jane’s talent for storytelling and their deep understanding of the musical traditions they draw from. The album is a testament to the duo’s commitment to their craft, offering listeners a rich tapestry of sounds and stories that are both timeless and timely.
Whether through the driving rhythms of its more energetic tracks or the gentle melodies of its ballads, “On a Mission” invites listeners to embark on a journey that is both personal and universal, cementing Sugarcane Jane’s place in the landscape of contemporary Americana music.
–Ralph Lee
