Pearl Charles - Magic Mirror (2021) [Official Digital Download]

"Charles' record takes cues from movements all over the American map. There are hints of Southern folk and alt-country, Midwest Americana, and West Coast acid rock."

Pearl Charles’s debut LP, 2018’s Sleepless Dreamer, confidently established her ‘70s California country sound, but on follow-up Magic Mirror she pushes herself into distinctly pop territory. Over the course of its 10 tracks, the L.A. singer-songwriter explores the gratification that comes from recognizing personal growth and reflects on the joyful—and painful—experiences of her life. Charles’s lyrics here may seem bleak in places, but the even-keeled vocals and jubilant melodies offer assurance that hope is the underlying theme.

Though retro sounds form the backbone of Magic Mirror, genre-wise, the album is something of a shape-shifter. Shimmering album opener “Only For Tonight” exults in ABBA-esque disco before Charles shifts gears on “What I Need,” moving into airy, mystical terrain. A grand harpsichord and pedal steel guitar drive the country-leaning “Don’t Feel Like Myself,” while the sparse title track features only Charles’s vocals and a piano.

The album ends with the romantic “As Long as You’re Mine,” where Charles sings, “News is clear/ The end is near/ So baby just dry your tears/ No use in crying.” It’s a sentiment well-aligned with the optimistic celebration of a new year.

Tracklist:
1. Only for Tonight (04:32)
2. What I Need (03:24)
3. Imposter (03:25)
4. Don't Feel Like Myself (03:57)
5. Magic Mirror (02:58)
6. Slipping Away (03:49)
7. All the Way (02:56)
8. Take Your Time (03:45)
9. Sweet Sunshine Wine (04:10)
10. As Long As You're Mine (04:02)


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