Heatherlyn
Storydwelling
Minneapolis, MN
“Haunting and serene, made perfect with stunning vocals and simplistic melodies”
Nothing would describe Heatherlyn’s Storydwelling more fittingly than the singer’s own mantra of authentic, available, and audacious. The Maine native turned Minneapolis singer/songwriter perfectly captures a sense of simplicity, serenity, and experience in her new 12-track album. Bluesy undertones and crooning vocals add a dash of melancholy, while religious, societal, and historical influences make the record unique and smart.
“When I Dream,” “Wayfaring Stranger,” and “You’ve Gotta Move” showcase Heatherlyn’s voice perfectly with pure chords and provocative lyrics. “You’ve gotta dance when the spirit says dance//cause when the spirit says dance, you’ve gotta dance, oh Lord//you’ve gotta dance when the spirit says dance,” the singer matter-of-factly chants in the album’s sixth track. “We Have a Dream” is a decree of sorts, proclaiming “This is not about idealism and illusions//the dream is about holding on to both wisdom and wonder//it’s about getting real, keeping it real//having the humility to acknowledge we’ve all been part of the problem, and we can all be part of the solution,” the singer adds through a verse of spoken prose.
“You’ll Never Know,” the album’s closer, opens with dancing piano melodies and is a story-like ballad of loss, hope, and regret. The lyrics are poignant and personal, as if the listener is given a glimpse of the singer’s secret thoughts. It ends the album brilliantly, with swelling melodies and a vulnerable sense of contentment. (Self-released)
Produced, Engineered and Mixed by Matt Patrick
Mastered by Greg Reierson