There is an understated charm to Taylor Rae's second album creating the impression that appreciation is slowly accumulated. There was a buzz around her 2021 debut release in certain quarters, yet a wider world awaits when the hypnotic wares of this artist ferment within fresh ears. THE VOID hovers around a neatly constructed reliable beat without moments of fizz or lulls. A slow burner maybe, but one brewing with laid back elegance. Genre tags evaporate with perhaps the lingering line being a record juxtaposing warm pop with explorative Americana.
A sense of control underpins the ten tracks with a savvy production securing a sturdy base. Rae possesses an exceptionally measured voice aligning with a mature contemporary sound. The songs benefit from sufficient space and work well in both combination and a few jutting out as solo pieces.
Three tracks faintly edge ahead to accrue extra appeal. The unabated sultry 'Cologne' drools with a moderately funky undercurrent while thinly laced with a light blues touch. The roots tinged 'Telluride' is an aural massaging beauty benefiting from perpetual mandolin. An album defining track capable of turning ears. 'Trapped' oozing with a lovely melody is a real treat in the album's final phase.
A couple of contrasting numbers guide the opening stages. 'The Void' with a delicate and tender side purrs with modern folk tendencies. This is followed by a springy pop beat adorning 'Maybe I'm the Villain', a tune awash with layers of melting guitars. Guitar also play a large part in the album closer with a lengthy outplay showing signs of the sound breaking out. Prior to its ending 'The Airport Song' is dictated by the album's general pace and like most of the preceding thirty minutes dangling lyrics to draw you in.
For a smidgeon of variety, late night jazz lounge sentiments hang around the personal feeling to 'Celebrating Alone', while you can detect remnants of a reggae beat in 'Hi'. The other two tracks completing the set, 'Undertone' and 'Not Mine', simmer in the signature groove with qualities arousing a serene setting.
THE VOID weaves its way into your senses with rhythmic guile and vocals spilling out sweet authenticity. Its entrance and residence is akin to the style cultivated by Kacey Musgraves on Deeper Well. Following that template and the name of Taylor Rae will exponentially grow.
