Last November we reviewed the Washington DC-based (by way of Chicago) singer-songwriter and powerhouse vocalist, Caroline Ferrante, for her single, Feels Like A Holiday. A song which we felt earned her a comparison to Shania Twain, as well as the #8 spot on The Ark of Music’s TOP 10 SINGLES of 2017.
Since we heard her last, a few things have changed a bit. Like so many other indie artists of late, Caroline too has found herself deeply affected by our species’ turbulent socio-political culture. Turning to the cosmos above, Ferrante has begun to transform confusion into clarity, and fear into hope in her latest EP, Beyond. Says Caroline about the inspiration for the EP, “I started to experience the stars as energy singing across time and space—an interconnectedness of things. In the climate of political turmoil, cultural chaos, and unimagined divisiveness, the songs of the universe provided me new perspective.”
HERE’S WHAT WE DUG MOST…
The drum, clap and melody of the opening track, River Flow, (OUR FAVORITE TRACK) immediately reminded me of Michael Bernard Fitzgerald’s Brand New Spaces. Soulful, southern-style church choir harmonies fill every space behind Ferrante’s inspired vocals. In its rejoicing of life and real freedom, Caroline keeps the truth very simple…
“There is a river flow, deep down in my soul
It goes where it will go as it washes over me
It’s deep and it’s wide, big love from side to side
Swallow up all my pride as you wash all over me…”
“Look beyond appearances. Truth, however raw or uncomfortable, is beautiful. Face darkness—that is where hope takes root. Choose questions over answers. Leave room for wonder. There is music all around; close your eyes and see.”
—Caroline Ferrante
Peace Be Still opens like a classic 70’s-style folk tune, reminiscent of the likes of Joan Baez. Like a prayer to the human race, Caroline asks the creative intelligence to calm her people, far and wide, and to truly experience peace.
“When our hearts begin to tremble
When our minds begin to spin
Won’t you whisper to us, Peace Be Still
And calm the storm within…”
A Little More Faith poses a simple question: What might happen if we had…just a little more faith?—and does so through the medium of unadulterated Rock & Roll.
Concluding the four-track collection is, Hear Your Love, a beautiful and dynamic piece of prose which sees the creator’s presence in everything, everywhere. More soaring melodic harmonies abound in this unabashed celebration of her lord above.
IN CONCLUSION…
An album truly devoted to the peaceful manifestation of her deity, weather or not you share Ferrante’s spiritual beliefs, her devotion and celebration of life’s possibilities shines brightly as a common denominator for anyone of any faith. Inspired vocal timbre, rich and vibrant harmonies, and soulful, substantive writing unite to create a 4-song collection which vibrates high. If you’re looking for a great deal more than commiseration from your music, perhaps you ought go for full-on inspiration, and check out Caroline Ferrante’s latest EP, Beyond.
WHOSE LOVECHILD…?
Shania Twain meets Joan Baez…
BELOW: Listen to Caroline Ferrante’s EP, Beyond, and connect with her website and social media platforms. Please support Caroline Ferrante by visiting her online, and playing, downloading, and/or purchasing her music, or attending a live show! And, as always, thank you for supporting real music!