Martha Spencer’s latest album, Out in La La Land, showcases an intriguing evolution in her musical style. When discussing this shift, Martha explains, “I grew up with a lot of old-time mountain music. My mom always sang a lot of old country songs, George Jones and Dolly Parton, so that’s what I grew up singing. I guess it’s pretty natural, it’s what I like, so I think I’ve got a little bit of that sound in there too. It’s got a lot of who I am reflected in it.” This deep-rooted connection to traditional sounds, blended with her personal experiences, forms the captivating core of her “La La Land Songs” and the entire album.
Beyond the expertly crafted musical arrangements and sequencing of Out in La La Land, the album distinguishes itself as a comprehensive artistic statement. The visual elements, from the album art to the record labels, are meticulously designed to narrate a story, which extends into the music video for the lead single, “Sometimes.” This unified approach to audio and visual storytelling creates a richer and more immersive experience for the listener, setting it apart in today’s music landscape.
The Album as a Cohesive Narrative in the Era of Singles
In an era dominated by single-driven music consumption on platforms like Spotify, Out in La La Land stands out by presenting itself as a complete, narrative-driven album. While thematic promotional packages are common, the concept of an album telling a cohesive story has become increasingly rare. Even artists like Billie Eilish have felt the need to emphasize that their albums are designed for listening from start to finish as unified bodies of work. Martha Spencer’s album embraces this increasingly uncommon approach, offering a journey rather than just a collection of tracks.
The opening track “Sometimes” sets a tone of wistful yearning, seamlessly transitioning into “Abducted By Your Love,” a song with a cinematic quality reminiscent of Quentin Tarantino soundtracks. “Little Darling” features a beautifully executed vocal duet with Archer, while “Coo Coo” injects energy with its driving rhythm, akin to the classic “Orange Blossom Special.” These tracks highlight the diversity within the album, all while maintaining a cohesive sonic identity.
Deep Dives into Tracks and Influences
“Do I Ever Cross Your Mind,” the first of two cover songs on the album, is a Dolly Parton original, thoughtfully reinterpreted by Spencer. Following this, “Who’s Gonna Break It To My Heart” offers a fresh perspective on the timeless themes of heartbreak and loneliness. “West Texas Wind” evokes open landscapes, enhanced by Eddy Dunlap’s steel guitar accents, adding a layer of breezy atmosphere.
The second cover, Bob Dylan’s “Tomorrow is a Long Time,” surprisingly complements Spencer’s original compositions. Dylan’s introspective lyrics find a comfortable space within the album’s overall narrative. “Same Little Dream” brings the album to a satisfying close, circling back to the ethereal introduction of “La La Land,” but this time with a sense of resolution, suggesting that “the time for dreaming is done.” This cyclical structure reinforces the album’s concept as a complete journey.
Martha Spencer’s Place in Contemporary Country Music
Contemporary country music is experiencing a surge in popularity, particularly within the “alt-folk” and traditional honky-tonk subgenres. This movement, often distinct from mainstream Nashville country, includes artists like Jason Isbell, Margo Price, Zach Bryan, Kacey Musgraves, Tyler Childers, Rhiannon Giddens, and Nick Shoulders. Martha Spencer firmly positions herself within this vibrant scene, yet carves out her unique niche with Out in La La Land.
Out in La La Land represents a pinnacle in Martha Spencer’s already impressive discography. The album is remarkably consistent in quality, offering no weak tracks. It is poised to resonate deeply with listeners and establish Martha Spencer even more prominently in the minds of daydreaming music enthusiasts. This album is not just a collection of songs; it’s an experience, a journey through sound, and a testament to Martha Spencer’s artistry.
Out in La La Land was released on May 17, 2024, through the Music Maker Foundation. The album can be ordered here.
