Review by Amanda Daubert – It’s been a long 22 year wait for fans of Canadian pop-rock singer Amanda Marshall. After her three incredibly successful studio albums, one certified diamond, the other two certified platinum, fans have been left waiting for a new album that has been teased for a better part of the past decade. And no one has waited longer that Marshall herself. After years of fighting some difficult battles with the music industry, the time has finally come for her to release her fourth studio album Heavy Lifting, out everywhere June 9th.
This 11 track album is a lyrical diary of sorts, with passionate and far from figurative storylines, that easily place any listener into the pages of a musical memoir. The first track, “I Hope She Cheats,” which was released back in March, is the perfect representation of the theme of the album. With poignant and direct lyrics, plus Marshall’s soulful voice and backing harmonies, fans have been rocking out to this empowering track while anxiously awaiting the full album release.
Track two, “Dawgcatcher,” which dropped May 12th, features a soulful funk-rock groove that easily hooks you in. Continuing with the funk-rock tracks we find “I’m Not Drunk,” a playful storytelling track that will have you both swaying along and smiling with some fun commentary. I think most can identify with the fun lyrics “I’m not drunk, I am just amazing.”
With a slightly harder hitting track we have “I Built This House.” A showcase of Marshall’s gritty and passionate vocals. Speaking of great vocals, we get a raspy, breathy and deeply enjoyable performance with “Rainbows in Gasoline.” Kicking in with a southern-rock harmonica and hard hitting drum beat we have “God Forbid,” a song that certainly takes a stance.
Leaning into a more pop-rock sound you will find yourself snapping along to “Not a Love Song,” before getting to the rocking “Halfway Love.” Up next is “Serves You Right” which turns the dial back to our funky-soul station with fun backing harmonies and groovy guitar riffs. Rounding out the album we have the bluesy track “Special,” and personal and emotional track “Honest.”
What a way to make a return! Be sure to check out Heavy Lifting available everywhere June 9th, and catch Amanda Marshall on tour across Canada starting June 11th in Moncton and wrapping with the already sold out show July 4th in Victoria.
Track List:
I Hope She Cheats
Dawgcatcher
I’m Not Drunk
I Built This House
Rainbows in Gasoline
God Forbid
Not a Love Song
Halfway Love
Serves You Right
Special
Honest
