Morgan Mabry – ‘Arrows Into Flowers: Part 1’ [EP] [Album Review]

Pop/country/Americana singer-songwriter Morgan Mabry releases her debut EP, Arrows Into Flowers: Part 1, a collection of autobiographical songs chronicling Mabry’s journey from rock bottom to self-empowerment.

Originally from Waco, Texas, and presently based in New York City with her sights aimed at California, Mabry’s purgatory began when the pandemic hit. Her professional industry shut down, forcing her to move to Texas. She canceled her imminent wedding, broke free from an abusive relationship, and walked away from her life and all her material belongings.

Mabry explains, “I committed myself to my healing journey and began rebuilding my life from scratch. Leaving that relationship and prioritizing myself is when the music really started to pour in.”

Eventually, Mabry moved back to New York City, where she met her producer, Meg Toohey. The two began collaborating just over a year ago.

Comprising six tracks, the EP begins with “Tables Turned,” traveling on light, gleaming surfaces topped by Mabry’s warm, evocative vocals, exuding gorgeous, gossamer tones. The lyrics balance feelings of raw vulnerability with announcements of independence.

Highlights include “Sky Turn Blue,” a personal favorite because of its delicious swaying, drifting motion and Mabry’s dulcet voice. A crying steel guitar accents the melody with a drawling, sweeping motion.

Morgan Mabry, photo by Daryl Getman (DAG Photography)

The darker country rock savors of “Temporary” conjure up suggestions of Shania Twain, infusing the tune with sensual fragrances at once enticing and wicked. Oozing Siren-like flavors, Mabry imbues the lyrics with sultry shades of color.

There’s a simmering allure to Mabry’s voice, a tonal richness that sets it apart from the run-of-the-mill vocals of today’s music scene, where most sound like everyone else. The irresistible tonal quality of Morgan Mabry elevates the tracks on Arrows Into Flowers: Part 1 from prosaic to excellent.

Arrows Into Flowers: Part 1 Track Listing:

1. Tables Turned
2. Hurt People
3. Willow
4. Sky Turn Blue
5. Temporary
6. Tin Man

Run Time: 23:10
Release Date: February 9, 2024
Record Label: Independent