Richard Buckner - Willow

Review by Trae Dorn

Willow by Richard Buckner is an introspective and haunting album that showcases the singer-songwriter's mastery of storytelling and evocative imagery. The album features 11 tracks that explore themes of love, loss, and longing, all delivered in Buckner's signature gravelly voice and accompanied by his sparse yet powerful guitar playing.

From the opening track "Blue and Wonder," which sets the tone for the album with its melancholic melody and poignant lyrics, to the closing number "Faithful Shooter," which leaves the listener with a sense of both catharsis and uncertainty, Willow is a journey through the emotional landscape of the human experience.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Traitor," a haunting ballad that tells the story of a man who betrays his lover for the promise of a better life. Buckner's lyrics are both poetic and raw, and his voice conveys the pain and regret of the protagonist with a haunting intensity.

Another highlight is "Mile," a stripped-down acoustic number that showcases Buckner's fingerpicking skills and his ability to create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability with his music. The song is a meditation on the passing of time and the fleeting nature of human existence, and it is delivered with a sense of quiet resignation that is both beautiful and heartbreaking.

Summary by Trae Dorn

Willow is a masterful album that showcases Richard Buckner's talent as a songwriter and musician. It is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates thoughtful, introspective music that explores the complexities of the human experience.