Today, singer-songwriter, Schuyler Fisk releases her much anticipated sophomore album, Blue Ribbon Winner on her own record label, Cassidy Barks Inc.
Fisk has co-written every song on the album, which has elven tracks, with her first single being “Blue Ribbon Winner” featuring Harper Blynn. “Blue Ribbon Winner” gives listeners a smooth set up to the album with well crafted and honest lyrics, wonderful imagery, and beautiful harmonies. Schuyler has such a soft voice but mixed with such bold songwriting, she keeps her listeners captivated. The second track, “Like A Fool” is a sad song and yet it is a very fun song to sing along to and an even more fun song to interpret and relate to.
“What If I Leave” brings back those memories from being on the brink of a break up and all of the “What Ifs” come to mind. We’ve all had these moments and if you’re currently in this situation, this somber song will probably make you cry. “Tell Your Heart” is a song that someone resisting love may not want to hear but should if they know in their heart that they share the same feelings with that special someone. It’s a song of reassurance and there aren’t too many songs out like this so it is one to be cherished.
Based on the title, “Zombie” one might expect a surprise rock number from Schuyler and even though that’s not the direction that this song went, the song speaks volumes. It might just be the moment Schuyler’s feelings were most awake.
“You can’t love me
Cause your heart don’t beat
And I can’t trust you for anything”
These are the first lines of the song after the chorus intro and what a powerful way to start off a song! She hits the nail in the coffin with these lyrics, it blows my mind how clever this song is. From “Zombie Zombie the dead are walking” to “We can only save ourselves,” there is so much in this song to analyze within ourselves and humanity which probably makes it one of my favorite tracks on the album. What’s funny is, the song did not grab me the first time around, but listening to the album a couple of weeks later, I saw it for all its worth. Maybe I was dead the first time around?
“You Hung the Moon” is the exact opposite of “Zombie.” This song paints the picture of more than just a prince charming…someone who helped put the pieces back together but unintentionally takes a piece away whenever he is gone. What a testament to so many relationships this is. While this is a sweet song, the metaphor of “You Hung the Moon” might be a bit too much for some. My favorite track on the album is “What Good Is Love.” Everything about this song is why I love music and lyrics. Give this one a listen if you don’t get to any of the other tracks. It’s magical.
“Irregular Heart” is another favorite track of mine. With its “da da da oh oh” mood and lyrics such as the lines below, one can’t help but love this song, especially when you’ve been in the situation.
“Every time I think we’re gonna make it
It’s make or break
And you break it.”
“If You Were Gone” is a sad song about saving someone before it’s too late to be saved. The lyrics are a bit too repetitive but for some, that’s the only way the message will hit them. Take it or leave it. As for the next track…no one wants the song, “Givin’ Up” written about them. To not dwell on this unfortunate disaster, the last track, “Waterbird” is the perfect close to the album, as one nears the end of their ride on the countryside or ride home from the beach. Seriously, the tone of this album makes for an incredibly fun and equally relaxing ride on the road. So make sure to get your copy today!
Blue Ribbon Winner releases on iTunes, Amazon, and in stores today!