Bill Abernathy’s latest album, “More,” marks a significant return for the Kansas City singer-songwriter after a five-year hiatus since “Crossing Willow Creek.” This new collection promises to build on his reputation for rich storytelling and heartfelt songwriting, with the first 3 singles making waves in the National Radio Hits AC40 chart, including 2 chart-toppers!
“More” opens with “It Is What It Is Until It’s Not,” setting the tone with Abernathy’s signature blend of folk and rock influences. The track delves into themes of acceptance and change, showcasing his knack for introspective lyrics and soulful melodies. The following song, “The 70’s Were a Little Hard on Me – Yacht Rock,” shifts gears with a nostalgic nod to the softer rock sounds of the 1970s, providing a breezy, reflective vibe.
The standout track, “Hide Away,” is a deeply reflective piece that has garnered significant radio play. Its success is understandable, given its poignant lyrics and emotive delivery. Abernathy’s vocal performance shines here, conveying vulnerability and strength in equal measure.
The title track, a NRH #1 single, “More,” is a powerful anthem of resilience and aspiration. With its uplifting chorus and dynamic arrangement, it serves as a centerpiece for the album, encapsulating the overarching theme of striving for better. The acoustic version of “More,” which closes the album, strips the song down to its raw essentials, highlighting Abernathy’s vocal prowess and the song’s lyrical depth.
Musically, “More” is a well-crafted blend of folk, rock, and country influences. Abernathy’s acoustic guitar work is complemented by Kevin Rogers’ electric guitars, Craig Kew’s bass lines, and Alex Cordero’s keyboard and string arrangements. Larry Gann’s percussion ties everything together, creating a cohesive sound that is both polished and heartfelt.
The production, handled by Larry Gann and Abernathy himself, is crisp and clear, allowing each instrument to shine. The engineering at AweStruck Studios ensures that the album sounds professional and engaging, without losing the intimate feel that is characteristic of Abernathy’s music.
### Highlights
1. **”It Is What It Is Until It’s Not”** – A reflective opener that sets the thematic tone of the album.
2. **”Hide Away”** – The emotional core of the album, showcasing Abernathy’s ability to connect with listeners on a personal level.
3. **”More”** – A powerful anthem that encapsulates the album’s themes of resilience and aspiration.
4. **”The 70’s Were a Little Hard on Me – Yacht Rock”** – A nostalgic track that offers a lighter, breezier sound.
5. **”Call Their Name – Acoustic”** – A stripped-down version that highlights Abernathy’s lyrical and vocal strengths.
“More” is a testament to Bill Abernathy’s growth as an artist and a storyteller. It is an album that balances introspection with aspiration, delivering a set of songs that are both deeply personal and universally relatable. Abernathy’s return is marked by a collection that will undoubtedly resonate with fans old and new.
### Cult Album Recommendation
For those who enjoy “More,” I recommend diving into “A Child’s Adventure” by Marianne Faithfull. This 1983 album showcases Faithfull’s raw, emotive vocal style and her knack for storytelling, similar to Abernathy’s approach.
### Playlist Offer
Would you like a themed playlist inspired by Bill Abernathy’s “More”? It would include tracks that blend folk, rock, and introspective lyrics from various artists.
### Playlist: Reflections and Resilience
1. **Bill Abernathy – Hide Away**
2. **Bob Dylan – Tangled Up in Blue**
3. **Brandi Carlile – The Story**
4. **James Taylor – Fire and Rain**
5. **John Prine – Angel from Montgomery**
6. **Fleetwood Mac – Landslide**
7. **Neil Young – Heart of Gold**
8. **Tom Petty – Wildflowers**
9. **Simon & Garfunkel – The Boxer**
10. **Jackson Browne – Running on Empty**
11. **Joni Mitchell – A Case of You**
12. **Jason Isbell – If We Were Vampires**
13. **Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young – Helplessly Hoping**
14. **Shawn Colvin – Sunny Came Home**
15. **Leonard Cohen – Suzanne**
16. **Paul Simon – American Tune**
17. **Tracy Chapman – Fast Car**
18. **Lucinda Williams – Car Wheels on a Gravel Road**
19. **Gordon Lightfoot – If You Could Read My Mind**
20. **Iron & Wine – Naked as We Came**
Enjoy the playlist and the deep dive into Marianne Faithfull’s work!