The phrase ‘flying on instruments’ occurs in the song How Long In aviation terms it refers to the need to navigate a plane even when the visibility is poor.
In a ground-based context, the term is used to address the unpredictability of everyday life. We never really know what obstacles lie ahead but we have to keep going forward.
The words to this song reflect doubts and uncertainty but the mood is hopeful and upbeat. It is representative of the album as a whole in the sense that there’s an constant feeling of optimism without ever underestimating life’s curveballs.
Of the single, Halfway Through, Peters sings about a level of procrastination over how best to advance: “I’m still trying to figure out what to carry, what to leave behind, and what I can do without.” The remedy for this dilemma is suggested in Pinball Heart: “sometimes you gotta go for it.” Good advice, I’d say!
The crisp production of the record centres largely around the piano but there are plenty of jangly guitars and powerful driving beats. Peters says ”We recorded most of these songs live in the room, arranging the songs together as we went along. Everything feels very direct and honest.”
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In Better, she confesses to being one of life’s worriers and too often concerned about what others think of her. This is underpinned by a pragmatic take on her current situation as a work in progress: ”I can’t say that I’m free - but it’s better, a whole lot better.”
Overall, the winning combination of melodic folk-pop tunes and relatable lyrics make this a highly accomplished and impressive album.
Vanessa Peters’ website
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