Maple Glider | I Get Into Trouble Review

By Bea Willis

Maple Glider’s latest album, I Get Into Trouble, released under Partisan Records, is a profound exploration of personal history, societal structures, and artistic expression. It reflects a journey of self-discovery and confrontation with the past, encapsulated in the heartfelt and profoundly introspective songwriting of Melbourne-based artist Tori Zietsch.

This ten-song album delves into the realms of personal trauma, religious upbringing, and the complex interplay of sexuality and self-identity. Zietsch’s storytelling is intimate and universal, bravely touching on themes of violation, survival, and the quest for self-emancipation. The lyrical content resonates with the current cultural climate, where such narratives are increasingly emerging in women’s art, challenging power structures and societal norms.

Musically, I Get Into Trouble reflects Zietsch’s growth as an artist as its sound evolves from the folk-pop sensibilities of her debut, To Enjoy Is the Only Thing, into a more expansive and eclectic soundscape. The album’s flow is an intricate blend of taut grooves, free-form passages, and a mix of tempos and structures that reflect the thematic complexity of the songs. The track “Two Weeks” is particularly notable for its shifty tone and structure, embodying the album’s overall mood of introspective uncertainty and exploratory boldness.

Zietsch’s voice is a central element of the album, showcasing her range and emotional depth. The track “Don’t Kiss Me” is a standout, where she deviates from her typical melodic style to convey raw emotion through a literal scream. This moment exemplifies the album’s theme of alchemized pain, transforming personal tribulation into artistic clarity and insight.

The album also includes lighter moments, as seen in the tracks “You at the Top of the Driveway” and “You’re Gonna Be a Daddy,” where Zietsch reflects on familial joy and the healing aspects of life. These moments of levity and hope balance the album’s more intense themes.

Zietsch’s songwriting style is stark, honest, and direct, making her music an artistic expression and a tool for personal catharsis and understanding. She uses her music to navigate and make sense of her life experiences, inviting listeners to join her in this journey of self-discovery and healing.

Maple Glider’s I Get Into Trouble offers a compelling blend of emotional depth, lyrical honesty, and musical innovation. It is a powerful statement from an artist who is not afraid to explore the depths of her experiences and share them with the world. The album is a testament to the transformative power of music and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

I Get Into Trouble

Release Date: October 13, 2023

Label: Partisan Records

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.