Megan Brickwood’s debut album, All the Same, is a musical odyssey born from transformation. Leaving behind the glittering facade of Los Angeles, Brickwood embarked on a journey that led her through the rugged landscape of her hometown of Redding and ultimately to the misty shores of Seattle. This collection of songs serves as both a chronicle and a catalyst of Brickwood’s quest for authenticity, purpose, and artistic rebirth.
Recorded at the renowned Bear Creek Studio in Woodinville, Washington, All the Same benefits from the expertise of producer Ryan Hadlock (The Lumineers, Brandi Carlile) and a cadre of Seattle’s finest musicians. Drummer William Mapp, bassist Dune Butler, and keyboardist Charles Wicklander contribute their considerable talents, elevating Brickwood’s intimate songwriting to new heights.
The album draws inspiration from a diverse constellation of influences. Brickwood cites poets Mary Oliver and Linda Gregg as guiding lights, particularly Oliver’s “Upstream.” Their explorations of resilience in the face of trauma, found through communion with nature and the written word, echo throughout Brickwood’s lyrics. Musically, All the Same drinks from a well of iconic songwriters. From the sardonic wit of Aimee Mann to the poetic brilliance of Joni Mitchell, many who came before her have left their imprint. Yet, Brickwood’s voice remains singularly her own, a fresh breeze in the often-stagnant air of the Americana scene.
The album’s three pivotal tracks showcase Brickwood’s range and depth as a songwriter. The title track, “All the Same,” opens the journey with a hypnotic DADGAD tuning, echoing Nick Drake’s intricate fingerwork. Brickwood’s clear vocals soar above a landscape of acoustic guitar and dobro, courtesy of Seattle guitarist Jeff Fielder, as she reflects on acceptance and forward motion.
“Broken in the Middle” pays homage to the timeless folk tradition embodied by Joan Baez. The song’s vintage warmth is accented by innovative production touches, including percussion crafted from an ordinary shot glass, bridging the gap between folk’s roots and its future.
“Nothing New” stands as Brickwood’s most politically charged offering. Born from keen observations of societal cycles and the elusive nature of progress, the song tackles weighty themes while maintaining an intimate connection with the listener. Its structure, pivoting on a bridge that whispers of hope, showcases Brickwood’s talent for crafting lyrics that are both thought-provoking and deeply personal.
While not direct influences on All the Same, Brickwood’s eclectic musical tastes – from the dreamy soundscapes of Mazzy Star to the cinematic Americana of Lord Huron – hint at the vast horizons of her artistry. She stands as a creator unbound by genre, forever in pursuit of novel sounds and untold stories.
All the Same is a testament to the transformative power of embracing change and seeking new horizons. It’s an album that poses life’s most challenging questions, offering not facile answers but a companion for the journey. For those who seek solace in the fertile ground between folk tradition and indie innovation, Megan Brickwood’s All the Same is an essential addition to any discerning listener’s collection.
PAST PRESS
“A nuanced blend of influences from American roots and folk music, blues, and rock distinguishes Megan Brickwood’s musical style.” – Broadway World
“Her songs make you think. They make you remember and feel, and that’s something that is not easy to come by.” – RagMag
“Thoughtful, Moonlit Indie Folk.” – Two Story Melody
A folksy acoustic four track collection that opens with the suitably rippling fingerpicked ‘Trinity River Blues’ which highlights her Nick Drake open tuning influences, followed by the rolling rhythms of self-assertive kiss-off ‘You’ll Never Find A Girl Like Me,’ the Mary Chapin Carpenter-coloured letter to her younger self ‘Hey Little Darling’ to not lose heart and the moody piano-accompanied, rumbling percussion ethereal title track which harks to the vintage Laurel Canyon days.” – Folking
“Brickwood’s gorgeous deep voice and restrained singing manner create a magical aura.” – Tonic Grain