‘Simple Life’, the new single from Michelle Malone, is a beautifully-crafted song that showcases her stunning voice. There’s a gorgeous purity to Malone’s vocal performance; her range is impressive and those fluttering higher notes pull the listener into her narratives and transmit real feeling. She begins, “I’m just trying to do the best I can // Saving pennies on my nightstand,” and her words are immediate and accessible, reinforced by the Harold Sellers-directed video, which centres on the character of a waitress played by Maggie McDonald. Footage of Malone performing ‘Simple Life’ is interspersed with the waitress’s working life, helping to deliver her message. Malone is accompanied by Doug Keys, who delivers captivating guitar-work.
The single is taken from Malone’s new album, ‘Southern Comfort’, which reflects the inspiration and influence of music from her Southern roots. She says of her sound: “I’m very much a southerner. This whole record was written, recorded, and performed by southerners, and you can hear it. There’s rock, country, and folk here. There’s swagger. ‘Southern Comfort’ isn’t about booze; it’s about a feeling, a family, a familiarity — all the things that make you feel warm and fuzzy. For me, that’s Georgia. From the beginning of my career, I’ve always had a foot in the southern-rock world and a foot in the folk world. This record really solidifies the stance and brings those sounds together.” Though inspired by her home, the blend of sounds and the themes make these songs universal and accessible. After more than a dozen studio albums, Malone’s songwriting is assured and her striking vocals ensure this is a fine record – check it out.
