Annie Capps calls this collection of songs “a love letter to my younger self”. It is her “welcome to my world” album but an all-women cast of producers, mixers an performers also helped bring the project to fruition.
Over the course of twelve tracks Capps tackles topics relating to Catholic guilt and forgiveness, secrets, lies, grief and, ultimately, a healing of sorts.
Gaining a true perspective on life and sufficient personal wisdom are the ultimate goals as these are a means of finding true self –awareness and female empowerment.
Through fragile vocals, acoustic guitar and subtle string arrangements, darker themes surrounding shame, grief and fear are handled with a delicate touch.The lightness of mood does not undermine the powerful impact these feelings have had on her. For example, in My Father’s House she addresses the trauma of growing up as an alcoholic’s daughter and foraging for some form of forgiveness in later life.
Finding one’s own voice is the holy grail. Having to express difficult emotions which will cause pain to others is at the heart of the title tune. How Can I say This? could be read as a quirky break-up song but fundamentally it cautions against putting too much faith in others; “You are a part of my anatomy but I need you to leave me alone”, she sings.
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The last two songs, Only Sometimes and Yesterday. convey the feeling that the path to contentment is clearer but is beset with the knowledge that the journey is far from over.
This is a record about coming to terms with sadness of the world without being overwhelmed by all this entails.
Annie Capps bears her soul not in order to beg for, or demand, sympathy but to invite empathy.
Annie Capps’ website
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