Every once in a while, you find a musician whose talent and ability to entertain can keep up with the fast changing musical trends. Amy Ray and Emily Saliers, more commonly known as the Indigo Girls, embody this. Their new album, Come On Now Social, once again proves that they have the stuff to withstand the test of time.
With twelve new songs of various styles, Come On Now Social has something for everyone. “Go” opens, rocking hard with some great electric guitar chords and that familiar Indigo beat. Stretching to the opposite side of the rock spectrum, “Peace Tonight” presents more of a southern sound, reminiscent of some old folk country. In that same style, “Andy” tells the sad story of a woman in love with a farm boy that doesn’t feel the same way about her. Though it’s uncharacteristic in terms of what we have come to expect from the Indigo Girls, they carry the country melody like old pros.
The Indigo Girls not only put together some great sounds; they know how to express their personal beliefs. In “Fay Tucker”, Amy Ray sings the story of Karla Faye Tucker, the first woman to be executed in Texas since the Civil War. Her message is relentless, and with the power of song she conveys her feelings on the inhumanity of the death penalty. Other highlights include “Gone Again”, a folk song with backup vocals by fellow Lilith Fair performer Sheryl Crow, and “Cold Beer and Remote Control”, which are “two things that can soothe any soul.”
A commentary on many social issues, Come On Now Social is probably the most soulful and diverse recording from the duo to date. With poetic lyrics and moving subject matter, the Indigo Girls subconsciously climb into the minds and hearts of every listener. It’s not too often you find music that provokes thought and stirs your emotions like the Indigo Girls can.
+ Ashley Adams
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