Abby Sage | Milk Review

by Bea Willis

Abby Sage is making her music into something fresh in the realm of alt-pop, where bombast often reigns supreme; Sage emerges as a beacon of subtlety, her artistry a demonstration of the power of understatement. Her debut single, “Milk,” a harbinger of her upcoming album, encapsulates this ethos with remarkable clarity. As a songwriter with a penchant for delving deep into the artistic soul, Sage’s work is a refreshing divergence from the norm, a whisper in a world of shouts.

“Milk” is a canvas where Sage paints with a palette of emotions and memories. The track begins with the gentle strums of a guitar, reminiscent of a painter’s initial brush strokes on a blank canvas. These strums lay the foundation for what becomes a vivid, emotional landscape. The production, helmed by the adept hands of MyRiot (Roy Kerr and Tim Bran), known for their work with nuanced artists like Halsey and London Grammar, creates an auditory experience that transcends the traditional confines of genre. They have crafted a soundscape where the boundaries between pop, indie, and ethereal music blur and intertwine, forming an intricate tapestry of sound.

Sage’s vocal delivery is the centerpiece of this composition. Her voice, layered and emotive, acts as the colors that bring the canvas to life. The harmonies are subtle yet profound, resonating with a depth transcending auditory perception. This aspect of her music sets Sage apart: her ability to communicate deep emotional depth in an understated and resonant manner.

The narrative depth of “Milk” is perhaps its most striking feature. Sage draws inspiration from the documentary films “Boys Alone” and “Girls Alone,” which explore the raw, unfiltered world of children left to their own devices. This thematic backdrop adds a layer of complexity to the track, juxtaposing the innocence of childhood with the chaos of an unchecked world. The song becomes a reflective mirror, a nostalgic journey back to a time of purity, untamed and authentic.

Listening to “Milk” is akin to stepping into a river of memories, each note a ripple in the water, each lyric a reflection of a bygone time. The song invites the listener to join Sage in this retrospective journey to embrace the untarnished, unkempt world of childhood. It is both a solace and a summons—a call to remember, feel, and be enveloped by the music.

As we eagerly await the arrival of Sage’s debut album, slated for release in Spring 2024, her single “Milk” is a poignant and tantalizing preview of the lyrical and emotional depth we can expect. With its gentle yet profound delivery, Sage’s artistry reminds us of the powerful impact music can have when it combines subtlety with deep emotional resonance. This track is an immersive experience, a gateway into the soul-stirring artistry of Abby Sage. As such, we stand on the precipice of experiencing something profoundly beautiful and emotionally resonant.

Milk

Release Date: October 06, 2023

Label: Self-Released

About the author

Bea Willis

Author

With an unwavering passion for music that began at the tender age of five, I embarked on a journey of self-expression through the piano, later expanding my repertoire to the guitar and the art of singing. As a seasoned performer in cozy coffee shops and harmonious choir ensembles, I've immersed myself in the diverse tapestry of musical genres, seeking to uncover the intricate qualities that strike a chord within our souls.

Beyond my personal experiences, my journalistic pursuits have led me to explore the stories and inspirations behind the melodies we hold dear. As a music journalist, I aim to delve into the heart of each composition, shedding light on the creative minds that have shaped the soundscape of our lives.

In my downtime, you can find me serenading my loyal canine companion with heartfelt tunes on the guitar or indulging in retail therapy to enhance my ever-growing wardrobe. Songwriting holds a special place in my heart, and I yearn for the day when I can share my creative talents with the world. Until then, my passion for uncovering the emotional power within music continues to drive my insightful reviews and analyses, as I journey through the rich landscape of melodies that move us.