Valerie June albums

2021

The Moon and Stars: Prescriptions for Dreamers - 89%

With her positive attitude and peppy songs, I have no idea why Valerie June isn't one of the biggest stars on the planet. June starts of her record with her unique approach to the folk world, its a mix of folk music tinged with elements of soul and her bizarre singing voice is icing on the cake. If Nina Samone crosses with Joanna Newsom, you have some idea of how it sounds, but then you have to throw in some classic country as she previously toured with John Prine. A lot of the album comes across as bombastic pop such as "Why the Stars Grow" and the opening anthem of a track (backed up with marching band drums) "Stay", but most of it is more in the psychedelic folk rock vein. "You and I" is an odd concoction of a tune, part ballad and part guitar noodling on the back porch.
      "Stardust Scattering" paints a picture with words while channeling revival psych of the 1990's like Mercury Rev or Mazzy Star. "Home Inside and "Smile" could be played on a mandolin and have the same lasting effect, while best of all "Colors" is a Gordon Lightfoot tune influenced tune complete with backing orchestral strings; seriously its a contender for a 21st century version of "If You Could Read My Mind." But just so you don't forget her soul roots, she belts out the amazing "Call Me a Fool" backing by the legend Carla Thomas; the vocal acrobatics in this song alone warrant the artistic importance of June's place of the most important artists of her time. Its an album full of variety an ambition and it would play as easily as music in the background at a party or live in an arena full of thousands of people.

Best Songs: Colors, Why the Bright Stars Grow, Stardust Scattering, Call Me a Fool