Wednesday, July 15, 2015

Album Review: Pageant Material by Kacey Musgraves


Written By: Nahson Wren

Kacey Musgraves's second studio album is one to lean back and chill to.  It's filled with the opinions of someone not known as "pageant material."  Although she's a southerner, her dreams and lifestyle somewhat clash.

The album starts off with the mellow rifts that warrant the release of stress. In some ways it captures the ideal of the album; coping with the difficulties that overshadow the best parts of life.  Her personality shines through in "Dime Store Cowgirl".  In a way that is both appreciative and sardonic, she sings of how her love for her family and culture keep her firmly grounded.  That sentiment is echoed through songs like "This Town", "Biscuits", and "Family Is Family".

Love songs like "Late To the Party", are the reason why Kacey has quickly become an artist that I could listen to throughout an entire day.  It's about caring for someone in a way that makes being alone with them enough for a good time.

The story tells of discontent from Kacey in songs like "Miserable", "Good 'Ol Boys Club", and "Are You Sure".  Although her roots are firmly planted in her traditions, she hopes for more.  Shedding some of the judgment that makes its way into her life seems to be one of the biggest concerns.

Overall, this is filled with allegory that I may find myself using constantly.  Her way with words is quirky and pleasant, while being informing as well.  In some ways, the album revolves around the notion that is presented in the twelfth song; "you can't be, everybody's cup of tea".

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