Alyssa Bonagura | Love Wins Review

by Bea Willis

Alyssa Bonagura’s latest EP, Love Wins, released on May 3, 2024, under Extreme Music Library LTD, is a vibrant exploration of emotional landscapes, personal history, and universal truths, delivered through a unique fusion of contemporary country, gospel, and blues influences. Recorded in an intense, single-day session, the album captures a moment of raw artistic expression that stands out in the polished landscape of modern music production. Here’s a deeper dive into how Love Wins  showcases Alyssa’s musical allure with her philosophical depth and ability to connect on a human level.

Love Wins is a sonic diary where each note and lyric is imbued with Alyssa Bonagura’s personal and musical heritage. The opening track, “No Stoppin’ This Train,” is a powerful narrative of personal resilience that also taps into a collective spirit of moving forward against all odds. The track’s driving rhythm and compelling lyrics paint a vivid picture of a journey not just resumed but reinvigorated, echoing Alyssa’s personal life and broader societal challenges.

The title track, “Love Wins,” further explores these themes, drawing on recent personal and societal tragedies to offer a message of hope and perseverance. The song balances a somber reflection on adversity with an uplifting chorus, asserting that love prevails over darkness. The blend of gospel elements with country roots adds a profound depth to the message, creating a rallying cry that feels intimate and expansive.

The live studio recording environment of Love Wins brings an unmistakable authenticity and immediacy to the EP. This dynamic is particularly evident in the raw vocal delivery and the spontaneous interaction between instruments. Each track bears the hallmark of live performance—an energy and an imperfection that feels genuine, a direct contrast to the often sanitized productions typical in today’s music. This approach not only highlights Alyssa’s vocal and instrumental versatility but also enhances the emotional gravity of the EP.

Throughout Love Wins, Alyssa Bonagura engages with deep philosophical questions and emotional insights. “Never Alone,” the EP’s closing ballad, is a poignant reflection on loss and legacy, inspired by the passing of a close friend. The song is structured as a conversation, a reassurance from beyond, offering solace that transcends personal grief to touch on universal experiences of mourning and memory. Its lyrics are crafted with a poetic grace that invites listeners to find comfort in the thought that they are never alone in their struggles.

The EP’s philosophical depth is not just in its lyrics but also in its musical choices. The integration of diverse musical styles—from the bluesy depths of “Love Wins” to the tender acoustics of “There Was You”—mirrors the complexity of the emotional and existential themes Alyssa explores. Each song is a thread in a broader tapestry of human experience, woven with the threads of various musical traditions and personal reflections.

Love Wins by Alyssa Bonagura is a flowing musical journey that offers solace and inspiration. In a world often divided, Alyssa’s message is clear and necessary—despite everything, love wins. This EP is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the art of storytelling through music, and it promises to resonate long after the last note fades.

Love Wins

Release Date: May 3, 2024

Label: Extreme Music Library LTD

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.