Exploring the Sonic Landscape of Mariel Buckley’s «Strange Trip Ahead»

Photo credit : Emma Palm

Mariel Buckley's «Strange Trip Ahead» blends alt-Americana/indie rock, featuring introspective tracks like «Anvil». Produced by Jarrad K, the album explores love, loss, and personal choice, inviting listeners to reflect.

Mariel Buckley’s Bold New Chapter

Renowned Americana singer-songwriter Mariel Buckley is back with her third studio album, «Strange Trip Ahead», released under Birthday Cake Records. Following the success of her Polaris Prize-longlisted album, «Everywhere I Used to Be», Buckley boldly steps into a new sonic territory. This album blurs the lines between alt-Americana, indie rock, and emotive confessional songwriting, showcasing her artistic evolution.

The Emotional Core: «Anvil»

At the heart of «Strange Trip Ahead» lies the emotional centrepiece titled «Anvil». Co-written with Nashville songwriter Robby Hecht, the song delves into life-altering decisions within relationships, particularly around the deeply scrutinized topic of parenthood. Buckley’s exploration of having children resonates powerfully, reflecting her own experiences as a woman and a queer person. The track encapsulates the tension and introspection tied to these significant conversations.

Creating Through Uncertainty

Produced by Jarrad K, this album consists of nine introspective tracks that traverse the vulnerabilities of love, loss, and personal choice. From the heavy rhythm sections to Buckley’s soaring vocals, each song captures the weight of human experience. As she reflects on grief, nostalgia, and self-awareness in tracks like «Vending Machines» and «Swim Practice», Buckley invites listeners to navigate their own emotional landscapes. Ultimately, «Strange Trip Ahead» is about choices and the journey we all undertake — reminding us that the best is yet to come.