Cliff & Susan’s debut album, “Fiddle & Keys,” is a delightful journey through Americana and country music landscapes sprinkled with heartfelt narratives and instrumental prowess. The album starts with “Neon Dreams,” setting a vibrant tone with its upbeat rhythm and joyful fiddling that perfectly complements Susan’s energetic piano. The longer track, “A Natural State,” unfolds like a scenic drive through Arkansas, showcasing their storytelling through rich lyrics and a captivating arrangement.
The track “Neon Dreams” is a vibrant narrative that embodies the quintessence of Americana and country music’s storytelling tradition. This song captures the spirit of an aspirational artist performing in the local bars, chasing the bright, albeit often elusive, lights of fame and success.
The lyrics start with a vivid portrayal of a typical dive bar setting — “Red sign glow with a couple of letters gone, the doors don’t open til 8.” This imagery sets a familiar scene for many, reflecting the grassroots level where many musicians find their initial audience and refine their craft.
The chorus, “And I’ll just keep chasing that Neon, with me on the stage I wanna be on,” speaks to the universal dream among performers to make it big. The reference to “chasing that Neon” metaphorically represents pursuing the allure of the spotlight and success in the music industry.
References to pop culture icons like Elon Musk — “Shoot up to the sky, gettin’ high like Elon” — cleverly intertwine modern entrepreneurial ambition with the traditional country music narrative of striving for greatness, adding a contemporary touch to the song.
“Neon Dreams” is not just a song; it’s an anthem for every small-town artist dreaming of a big stage. It encapsulates the highs and lows of the musical journey and the relentless pursuit of dreams amid the backdrop of Americana. This track is a perfect opener for an album that celebrates the essence of musical passion and the undying hope of a brighter, neon-lit future.
“A Natural State” draws deeply from the picturesque landscapes and simple pleasures of life in Arkansas. The lyrics weave a tapestry of memories and scenes that reflect a profound connection to nature and familial bonds, capturing the essence of life’s quieter, more grounding moments. The song begins with vivid imagery of leisurely activities like fishing and relaxing outdoors — “It’s a flat bottom boat in the water’s wake, A good fishin’ pole and an ice cold drink.” These lines immediately establish a quintessentially rural setting and are deeply connected to nature.
The depiction of family life, where “Daddy picks around while mama sings,” conjures a scene filled with music and harmony, emphasizing the importance of family ties and traditions passed down through generations. The chorus, “Just get a taste of that honeysuckle growing wild on a hillside,” invites listeners to imagine and almost taste and smell the lush, natural surroundings. The use of sensory descriptions enhances the immersive experience of the lyrics.
“A Natural State” stands out as a heartfelt ode to Arkansas. It encapsulates a profound love for and connection to a place that defines much more than just a physical landscape; it shapes the very identity of its inhabitants. Through its lyrics, Cliff and Susan celebrate the timeless allure of a life lived in harmony with nature and tradition.
At the heart of the album, the titular track “Fiddle & Keys” captures the essence of their musical synergy with a playful interchange between violin and piano, embodying the joy and spontaneity of their live performances. “Maybe You Should” and “When I’m Feeling Lonely” change tempo, delving into more reflective and emotive themes, highlighting Susan’s vocal clarity and Cliff’s sensitive instrumentation.
Production-wise, Cliff Prowse’s dual role as producer and engineer shines, delivering crisp, clean sound that respects the acoustic roots of the music while providing a modern sheen. Each track is a testament to their craftsmanship, with arrangements that feel both familiar and fresh, inviting listeners into the warm, inviting space they’ve created.
Similar albums and artists to Cliff & Susan’s “Fiddle & Keys” include Ashley McBryde’s – “Girl Going Nowhere,” a compelling narrative-driven country album with heartfelt songwriting; The Civil Wars “Barton Hollow” features intimate, acoustic-driven Americana with gorgeous vocal harmonies; and Shovels & Rope “O’ Be Joyful,” a raw, energetic blend of folk, country, and Americana, similar in spirit to Cliff & Susan’s approach.
“Fiddle & Keys” charm lies in its authentic representation of Cliff and Susan’s musical journey, delivering a sound that’s both polished and personal. It’s an impressive debut that promises great potential for future projects, appealing to fans of genuine, soul-stirring music that bridges the traditional and contemporary.
Published by: Nelly Chavez
