SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: TARA MACLEAN – SPARROW

Tara MacLean
Sparrow
Independent

Sparrow is the latest album from Canadian singer-songwriter Tara MacLean. The music veteran has just released a memoir called Song of the Sparrow, and this album is the soundtrack to the book.

Recorded in Lake Echo, NS by multi-instrumentalist producer Daniel Ledwell (Jenn Grant, Fortunate Ones, Justin Rutledge), Sparrow is beautifully arranged and produced. Containing three new songs and seven rerecorded versions of tracks from the artist’s back catalogue, the album perfectly presents Tara MacLean as she is today.

As the artist has matured, so has her sound. Witness the differences between the original and reimagined versions of MacLean’s song “If I Fall”. Gone is the urgent rhythmic drive, and the young, sprightly vocal. In its place is a calmer, wiser groove, replete with tasteful electric piano and mature, self-assured vocals. A similar case may be made with the updated version of “Let Her Feel the Rain”. The production is less busy, musically. The performances are nuanced, resulting in greater artistic drama. Less is more. These comparisons are purely academic, though. Songs from both eras have their merits.

Of MacLean’s new songs, title track “Sparrow” is an obvious standout. This song about forgiveness and resilience rolls out with a natural honesty. The song sneaks up on us, though. Just when we think we are simply listening to a pretty song, we are hit with its strength and sensitivity.

Listeners are in for a few stylistic treats near the end of the album, in the expansive drive of “Divided”, and the trippy, sophisticated, smooth and surprising jazz/soul sound of “Silence” – a departure from the original plaintive performance. Listen ’til the end, kids!

There are many gems in this wonderful collection. Like the artist herself, Sparrow has many layers. Enjoy.

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