The latest LP from duo Kalen & Aslyn is a pop-folk dream wrapped in the mountain breeze with an Appalachian bow.
Back Of Our Minds (via Normaltown Records) serves as the culmination of 10 years worth of songs which weave through the hardships, joy, and comfort of a relationship. The album was an incredibly personal endeavor for the duo. As Aslyn writes, “…we ended up recording an album that spans our entire journey together: falling in love, breaking up, getting married, leaving home, coming back.”
The release kicks off with the old western-esque swaying tune, “Heather”. Kalen’s voice is reminiscent of the Hank Williams’ “I’m So Lonely I Could Cry” era and the dreamy quality of this old country sound is what makes the duo unique. A listless sliding guitar moans in the background, echoing through the soundscape. The real power of this group is released when they come together with butter harmonies on the chorus. Even though the song gets dangerously close to becoming monotonous in its energy level, the lyrics are what keep listeners invested. The tune comes to a somber end as Kalen murmurs, “oh heather / sweet heather / oh how I’ll never be quite the same / I won’t be quite the same”.
Many of the tracks on the release follow a similar folky path as “Heather”, but Kalen and Aslyn add a completely different flavor on “Don’t Take It Out On Me”. The tune opens with a sultry bongo line and sliding keys. Horns layer on and synths dance in the background as Kalen’s relaxed vocals come in, crooning , “I know something’s got you down / but don’t worry baby we’ll figure it out”. The melody climbs as the instruments build to a grooving chorus that you can’t help but dance to.
Love ballad “Who Knows Your Heart” leaves an emotional punch unlike any other as the LP comes close to the end. The piano begins the tune with that well known “Lean On Me” type rhythm, a soft-spoken acoustic guitar strumming in the background. Kalen’s impassionedly haunting vocals that are a staple to this album are showcased as his and Aslyn’s voices dance hand in hand. A saxophone solo is prominent before the final chorus, adding even another flavor to this already bursting arrangement. Horn lines whirl and drums swing as Kalen & Aslyn deliver a final refrain, “so forget all you know / when I walk through your door / it’s exactly the same / won’t you open your gates /and just let my love into your heart”.
Stream Back Of Our Minds below via Spotify! To purchase the album, click HERE.
Have you listened to Back Of Our Minds? If so, let us know what you think below in the comment section. To keep up with Kalen & Aslyn follow them across your favorite social media platforms including Instagram and Facebook.
