Liz Bills & The Change’s new album is a treasure trove of uplifting, catchy, and powerful songs with deep roots in the Americana tradition.
Liz Bills and the Change’s self-titled debut record “radiates a warm, sunny energy, full of passion, strength, courage, love, and authenticity,” as she describes it. The eight tracks are rich with tight vocal harmonies and guitar lines reminiscent of bluegrass and country, groovy bass lines and sophisticated chord progressions reminiscent of rock and funk, and powerful, raw lyrics that are authentically Liz Bills. She explains, “I’m not trying to be someone else… I am just showing the world myself.” Liz says that her soaring vocals and country vibe are inspired by Brandi Carlile and her vocal harmonies and other musical stylings come from her love of Hanson, but she clearly blends these influences in a seamless and unique way that can only be described as being Liz Bills and the Change’s sound.
The album opens with “Train Song,” a perfect welcome to the world of “joy, fun, vulnerability, and honesty” that Liz creates. The track starts with a repetitive bass line that chugs along, some rhythmic bells, and a train-whistle, all of which instantly bring forth nostalgic and exciting imagery of a train. This tune introduces many of the key elements of the record, including the anthemic style of harmonized vocals with which Liz sings, “I woke early in the morning / Hear that train a-calling and soon she will be boarding.” The lyrics and melody practically beg us to sing along, and she even tosses out an “ALL ABOARD!” at the end of the tune.
“When I’m With You,” which was written in a parking lot, is a beautiful take on a love song. It starts with Liz’s signature three-part harmony, tasteful snaps, and acoustic guitar. The slightly twangy electric guitar licks come in after she sings, “… I can’t contain this big old lovin’ ache when I’m with you…” and they add an earthly grounded-ness to the mix as they fill in the spaces between the lyrics. This tune contrasts with “Wi-Hi,” an upbeat, pop-style song whose super funky guitar parts make you need to get up and dance. “Wi-Hi” explores the impact of smartphones, notifications, and social media on our lives; Liz compares Facebook to a drug: “Dear Facebook, I’m an addict, but not the kind you’d expect… Yeah, I got one in my pocket and you got one in your purse.” What an important message in a world where we all walk around with an addictive and destructive drug in our pockets everyday.
Liz Bills & The Change is a debut album full of genre-bending innovative music, heartwarming moments, and lessons to learn from, all while being genuinely fun to listen to. Liz explores deep subject matter, but never loses her listeners. She always keeps the musical arrangements engaging, and ends up with a unique album brimming with hits.