Maren Morris’s self-titled EP is just what country fans needed to hear in a time when diversity is not the norm. It’s clear that the Texas native wanted to set her own guidelines when putting out this EP, and listeners will embrace the change. A voice that sounds like country, folk, and pop all mixed into one, has given the 25-year-old the attention that she deserves.
1.) ‘My Church’
Impression: Her first single off the EP released with Columbia Nashville, which has already been given air time on SXM The Highway, gives fans a reason to be excited for more music from Morris. A song that talks about her church being her car and the preacher being whoever is on the radio, will have you singing right along, wondering when the next time you can put the windows down in your car will be. This tune has a blues-influenced sound, with multiple guitars in the background. Drums keep the beat throughout ‘My Church,’ giving listeners the urge to clap along.
Favorite Lyrics: I’ve cursed on a Sunday, I’ve cheated and I’ve lied. I’ve fallen down from grace a few too many times…
2.) ‘80’s Mercedes’
Impression: 90’s baby or not, Maren praises the likes of her 80’s Mercedes in her second song on the EP. We like that the singer compares herself to the classic car, giving us reasons to feel a connection with her lyrics. Who doesn’t want to still run good and is built to last. The modest car, like Morris, attracts the attention without even trying, another example of why NECM loves her and why you will too. What starts off as a slower tempo than the first song on the EP, picks up for the chorus. Background vocals of “whoa oh oh, whoa oh oh” has the listeners catching themselves singing before they know it.
Favorite Lyrics: She ain’t made for practicality, yeah, I guess she’s just like me…
3.) ‘Drunk Girls Don’t Cry’
Impression: Probably the most relatable song for girls out there who keep someone around for a little too long, Morris makes us laugh with this real-life tune. Excuses pile up and Maren nails each one on the head. Whether the advice is for herself or for her friends, she sounds like she knows what she is talking about in this witty song. The fun tempo steadied by the drums has lyrics like “that’s like saying drunk girls don’t cry…” is a comical sarcastic comparison to the repeat offender being a “real good guy.”
Favorite Lyrics: Another weekend, another box of wine. I heard it so much I got it memorized, if you think he’s the one you must be blind or c-r-a-z-y…
4.) ‘I Wish I Was’
Impression: Morris slows it down with ‘I Wish I Was,’ a song that goes against the grain. Songs these days often portray women as good girls who can do no wrong and will love you forever. We like this song because its raw and honest, saying she’s not the one and you can blame her. As if you needed a reason to love her more, her modesty shows through in her voice. Guitars and drums start off the song, introducing Morris’ soft, folk-like voice. Guitars later play a role in the jazzy song, with a couple solos to get listener’s hips moving.
Favorite Lyrics: On paper we go together. I know that we look the part, but almost never hangs on forever, I know I’m breaking your heart…
5.) ‘Company You Keep’
Impression: Another humble and down-to-earth melody, ‘Company You Keep’ paints the picture of a good time that’s ready to happen whenever, wherever. A life of flashing lights and late nights can put a damper on any relationship- unless you take the advice of Maren. In what may be the least-country ballad on the EP, the guitar solos, slow tempo and “live” feeling make for a worthy song regardless of it’s classification.
Favorite Lyrics: Don’t matter what we do, anything with you sounds fine to me…
It’s only a matter of time before Maren Morris hits it big in the music industry. A voice that leaves listeners ready for more and lyrics that push traditionalism aside, the Nashville resident serenades you for five fun songs on her debut EP. We think she could be the female counterpart of Chris Stapleton! Morris has emerged in a period of time that women are starting to rise in country music, all while dancing to the beat of her own drum. Fans that are tired of hearing the typical love and heartbreak ballads will thoroughly enjoy what Morris has to offer.
This was written by Lauren Rose, contributing writer for New England Country Music. You can follow me on Twitter here.