Review
Carly Pearce's third studio delight, "29: Written In Stone," is a raw and evocative journey through the rollercoaster of divorce and loss. Dropped in 2021 by Big Machine Records, it's like a soulful sequel to her earlier "29" EP, where she bared her soul about her split from Michael Ray and the heartbreaking loss of her former producer, Busbee.
Pearce serves up a masterclass in classic country storytelling, with each track turning her pain into poignant tales of love, loss, and resilience. The production team—Shane McAnally, Josh Osborne, and Jimmy Robbins—deserves a standing ovation for marrying that nostalgic '90s country vibe with a fresh twist. Tracks like "Next Girl" and "Never Wanted to Be That Girl" are catchy enough to stick in your head for days, while soul-stirrers like "What He Didn’t Do" and "Dear Miss Loretta" will tug at your heartstrings. With bluegrass sprinkled into gems like "Easy Going," the album is wonderfully layered and rich in texture.
One of the standout features is the album's cohesive narrative, guiding you through every heartbreak and healing moment. Pearce’s brutally honest songwriting makes her journey feel like you're flipping through the pages of her diary, every note dripping with authenticity.
In sum, "29: Written In Stone" isn’t just another country album; it's a triumphant tapestry of emotions and traditional country flair. Pearce manages to honor the past while crafting something entirely her own, solidifying her place in the country music pantheon. - Hayley
