MUSIC REVIEW: Alex Masters "Long Way Home"

As the first few notes of Alex Masters' new EP "Long Way Home" began to play I started to wish I was in my car with the windows rolled down and an open road. The perfect blend of melody and hook captures you at the first few measures. Something that as an artist I know can be difficult to do. The "summery sounds" of the title track "Long Way Home" play and I find myself wanting to put it on repeat even before moving onto the next. "Baby keep driving, we can go for miles, lets take the long way home" are sung with innocence and joy, as I wish that while I was in my imaginary car on the open road, that I also had someone to share that moment with.

"Breakable" is probably my personal favorite track on her EP. The lyrics "be careful what you say, don't look at me that way unless you mean it, baby I mean it" ring true to my heart and I'm sure there are tons of others out there that know this feeling all too well.

"Bulletproof" really showcase's Alex's vocal talent. She has a beautiful sound of ease and purity, going effortlessly from low notes to higher ones. Her tone is unique and can grasp your attention and keep it, making you want to hear the story she is about to tell.

"Jesus & Roses" is by far the most beautiful track off this EP. "another pointless fight, another tearful night... that's how it goes so, welcome home, oh, and of course you're right" is my favorite line she sings. Brilliantly written, witty and clever, with a hint of sarcasm, showing vulnerability and wishful thinking. Anyone looking for a song to relate to during a rough patch in a relationship should listen to this song... and then ask yourself "How long does maybe take?"

I find it incredibly therapeutic to write about the things that I go through in life, but a huge risk comes with that. Vulnerability. When "I Should've Said No" came on, I started to cry. The hontesy and pain in Alex's voice resonates throughout the whole room as you listen to what I can only imagine was a real life experience, a story that only the artist herself could tell. Beautifully written, with wisdom and love, making me wish more than anything that I could turn back time and tell the little girl in the story the words she sings. To let her know that in the end it will be okay and that it is alright to feel, to hurt, and to learn from our mistakes.

Once "East Coast" and "You Stay" began to play I immediately wished I was back in my car on the open road. These two along with the title track are a MUST for your summer road trips. With two requirements: 1. Windows down. 2. Music loud :)

All in all, Alex Masters' debut EP "Long Way Home" couldn't be a better way to make a splash into the pop country music scene. If you haven't bought it by now, then you need to this very instant. You can purchase it now on iTunes or on her official website (links below.)As my friend, and fellow Belmont classmate, I know the hard work, pain, love, and passion it takes to pour your heart out in song, and Alex has crafted that into a perfect blend of musical bliss. Enjoy everyone!

With Love,
Natalie

Alex Masters Official Site
Long Way Home on iTunes