Review Summary: Gratitude
The Two Worlds feels completely intimate; an album recovered from the ashes of Brigid Mae Power’s isolation. On her sophomore effort, the Irish songwriter doesn’t seem concerned with being clever or sarcastic; she seems more content just letting the words come out. It’s an album of confessions and often sparsely used instrumentals – backed by the musician's always soaring delivery. Her range doesn’t go unnoticed here. At times, she’s gentle enough to lull a baby to sleep, but at her most passionate, her music carries the weight of a much fiercer current.
Even with a more stripped-down approach at times – the light, sporadic fuzz throughout – the
The Two Worlds isn’t without substance or variation. Many tracks make their impact with very little, like the softly placed centerpiece, “Is My Presence In The Room Enough For You?” The track is made up of nothing more than a hushed piano and Brigid’s poignant vocals, sung gently over the light feedback of static. Like several tracks, the fragile and careful piano playing brings to mind true greats like Chopin. On the other hand, several cuts have much more life to them. “Peace Backing Us Up” conjures up visuals of lush scenery: a tune that mixes her Sarah McLachlan-esque vocals with traditional Irish folk melodies. Same goes for the closing track, with its bright accordions and unmistakable Celtic flavor.
On
The Two Worlds, Brigid Mae Power makes the most of her minimalistic approach to folk music; it seems no time is wasted. Right off the bat, we get a closer view into her outlook on life: “I’m grateful,” she sings, over and over again on the serene intro to the album. When it’s over, with these words echoing in your mind, you can’t help but feel a bit guilty for not always having such an optimistic tone. Brigid’s music has this effect throughout
The Two Worlds, her delivery always possessing a powerful grip on the listener. It’s an album that spells authenticity; one simply uninterested with popular trends or a specific audience. Instead, it comes across as an exclusive portrayal of what’s deeply important to the songwriter. Be it the lush, massive hills of Ireland or her genuine gratitude to just breath fresh air,
The Two Worlds seems conjured up from the musician’s most isolated, profound moments. Lucky for us, she’s been kind enough to share them – and man, what gorgeous moments these are.
