Independent music enthusiasts and lovers of authentic underground Americana should take note of Kansas-born singer-songwriter Lisa Michelle Anderson, who has recently returned with her latest album release, Spend A Little Time. Produced by Lisa’s long-time collaborator Johnny Irion, the nine-track album serves up a rich, warm blend of folk storytelling and pop-infused Americana hooks, as well as an occasional psychedelic rock edge – it sounds like the perfect package to me!
By Jane Howkins
Building effortlessly on previous releases like Get to Somewhere, Anderson’s latest project showcases a distinct sonic evolution from the past. Instead, the album captures the introspective weight of distance, memory and love (both lost and found), wrapping it all up inside the lush acoustic music found on this record. The result is an engaging and beautifully crafted listen that invites you to slow down and immerse yourself in every detail, making for the perfect album to listen to when the world seems to be coming apart around you.
No this sadly isn’t a cover of the song made famous by The Mamas and the Papas, but Lisa’s song California Dreamin’ is still well worth a listen! Opening with a warm acoustic introduction, Anderson sets the scene from the start with her smooth vocal style and a selection of classic West Coast guitar melodies, sounding warm and inviting throughout. It’s all very nostalgic in parts, setting a high standard for the rest of the album. Title track Spend A Little Time plays next, standing out as one of the record’s strongest moments. It appears to be centred around themes of bittersweet reflection and looking back at past relationships, seeing Lisa pair her heartfelt lyrics with a bright, fingerpicked guitar pattern.
Part-Time Preacher adds a welcome bit of grit to the record’s first act by injecting a hefty dose of groove into the clever narrative songwriting on offer here. Anderson’s vocals shine over the steady beat, accented nicely by the piano chords and drums. It’s a little slower than the previous two tunes, showing yet another side to Lisa’s music. Dance Away picks up the tempo once more, introducing a driving rhythm and some bluesy rock and roll riffs that showcase Anderson’s versatility flawlessly. The melodic hooks and guitar licks make Dance Away an easy standout track for radio airplay or public gatherings, inviting the listening to literally dance to the song as it plays.
Cowboy Heart is another slower song, although if I’m honest, I didn’t feel it worked quite as well as the previous number. Instead, Cowboy Heart leans more into the traditional Americana scene, adding sweeping acoustic arrangements and heartfelt storytelling to the forefront of the song. It’s a warm, cinematic piece that really lets the organic tone of Johnny Irion’s production shine, although it didn’t really captivate me as much as the other songs on Spend A Little Time.
One in a Million is another bright and uplifting highlight on Spend A Little Time, using a slew of soft, rolling melodies to complement Anderson’s clear vocals, creating a reassuring piece of music that feels both intimate and expansive, all at once! Then we come to Horseshoe Tavern, which brings a grounded, storytelling atmosphere with it to the record. It’s the sort of song that evokes vivid imagery of roadside venues and shared experiences, blending the different layers of country-tinged instrumentation with a rootsy rock and roll drive.
Offering a gentle and reassuring message for the listener is Gonna Be Alright, which provide a nice example of optimism, despite some of the complexities that life can offer. The airy vocal harmonies and light percussion really add something special into the mix, building the music up in an uplifting way as the album nears its final stretch. The record finally closes on a moody, slow-burning high note with The Wire. Here, Lisa uses the imagery of a tightrope to reflect on the risk and vulnerability inherent in long-term relationships. The lyrical content is good, but the subtle electronic textures and gloomy, bluesy sound make for a stunningly atmospheric song to wrap the album up with.
Spend A Little Time is a brilliant, emotionally resonant album that demonstrates Lisa Michelle Anderson’s growing confidence as a singer-songwriter and performer. The production choices made by Lisa and Johnny Irion truly elevate Lisa’s sweet vocal style and dynamic song structures, introducing elements of folk, Americana, country and rock within the overall mix. Ultimately, this is an album that radiates warmth and resilience, despite the reflective and ever so slightly bittersweet tone.
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