 "Photo: Courtesy of Universal Republic")
A refined Regina Spektor and a toned-down folksy Sara Bareilles, Erin McCarley is rising to the top with her unique and intelligent style. Her debut album, "Love, Save The Empty" showcases a lush eloquence in both lyrics and production.
You may have heard her tracks like "Pony (It's OK)" and "Pitter Pat" from the TV series "Grey's Anatomy" and "One Tree Hill." "Pony (It's OK)" was also featured as one of the iTunes Singles of the Week during the first week of 2009.
She launched her career with Universal Music Group after teaming up with Nashville-based songwriter and producer Jamie Kenney to record "Love, Save The Empty." The album, released on Dec. 30, landed the number five spot on iTunes "Top Albums" chart and the number 86 spot on the Billboard Top 200 chart, and is already bringing her into the spotlight.
The snapping and simple "Chopsticks" piano melody of "Pony (It's OK)" attempts to inspire listeners to stay true to their dreams. McCarley's lyrics tell all, "You gotta take a bow and do it your way/It's okay." When she reaches the bridge, she concludes, "It's time for you to prove/Within your ruby shoes/You deserve a smile with no regret."
The bonus acoustic version of the song still includes the clever instrumentation of the original, but lightens the percussive groove. The combination of tambourine, guitar and piano make for an excellent abridged version of the song, but it proves to be only a fluff track.
Melancholy "Pitter Pat" is McCarley's best work on the album, embracing her raw honesty and emotion. She hears a "pitter pat, the angel on [her shoulder]," a reminder of what she hopes to erase but must face as "the clock is getting louder."
"Pitter Pat" captures her full-bodied and poised voice by exploring the eerie tone of the song in her lower register. The male background vocals from producer Kenney add a nice contrast to her voice. The sleek melody makes this softer track a standout.
Her album-titled track "Love, Save The Empty" delves into the lack of parental guidance and the need for genuine attention. But the lyrical prowess may outshine the musical endeavor. The opening melody in the piano annoyingly fixates between 2 or 3 notes. The melody gets static but the song is catchy.
The ending track "Gotta Figure This Out" has soundtrack quality for rolling credits, but in a good way. The beautiful ballad tells an autobiographical story of McCarley's need to find her purpose in life. She must decide between the one she loves or letting go and chasing her dreams.
Although she is entering the pop mainstream, McCarley is unique, crafting intelligent design into both her music and lyrics. Already boasting success, she proves to carry a lot of artistic talent and potential.
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