Walker County, the country music duo comprising Ivy Dene and Sophie Dawn, embarked on their musical journey at a young age, relocating to the bustling music scene of Nashville at the ages of 16 and 19. Immersed in the vibrant songwriting community and guided by their label, Warner Nashville, they found their niche and honed their craft, drawing inspiration from their old country and bluegrass roots.
Over the years Walker County have released various EPs like 2023’s ‘No Smoke and Mirrors’ and fiery songs like 2020’s ‘Shovel’ but they’ve never quite captured who they wanted to be or what they wanted to sound like………………….until now. The ‘Painted Ponies’ genesis began back in 2015 when they collaborated with songwriter Paul Sikes, forging an instant connection that felt like home. The songs they created together held a special resonance, reflecting their authentic sound and musical heritage. Despite the passage of nine years, these songs lingered in the back of their minds, awaiting the opportunity to be recorded.
In a serendipitous turn of events, a casual conversation with Paul Sikes on Ivy’s birthday in March 2023 reignited their passion for these songs. Paul, recognising the potential of their unreleased material, offered to produce a record featuring these tracks. This momentous offer spurred Ivy and Sophie to take control of their musical destiny, leading them to depart from their record label and pursue an independent path.
Embracing their newfound freedom, Walker County have seized the opportunity to create music that truly resonates with their hearts. With a determination to stay true to their roots and craft authentic country music, they’ve embarked on a journey of self-discovery and artistic expression, meaning that ‘Painted Ponies’ is a testament to their unwavering dedication to their craft and their willingness to break the rules in pursuit of their musical vision.
The album kicks off with ‘20%,’ a fiery anthem of female empowerment reminiscent of Miranda Lambert’s style. With driving guitars and fiddles, the song exudes strength and resilience, echoing the vocal spirit of Natalie Maines from the Dixie Chicks. Ivy’s vocals shine as she confronts male laziness and ineffectual emotions head-on.
‘The Thing About Fences’ delves into themes of confinement and breaking boundaries, echoing classic Trisha Yearwood with its heartfelt balladry. The vocals convey a sense of longing and determination, making the track relatable to anyone feeling confined by societal constraints. Further tender balladry takes centre stage in ‘Small Pond,’ as Sophie sings of waiting for maturity and growth in a relationship. The song’s poignant melodies and emotive lyrics evoke classic country sentiments, reminiscent of artists like Faith Hill and Miranda Lambert.
Gentle, wistful openings characterise ‘Hits Home,’ a song that builds into a catchy chorus about finding one’s centre and belonging. The mature production and smooth instrumentation enhance the song’s emotional impact, resonating with listeners on a personal level. ‘Settling’s For Dust’ continues the theme of self-discovery and empowerment, with insightful lyrics backed by heartfelt instrumentation. Ivy and Sophie deliver messages of authenticity and staying true to oneself, making this track a standout on the album.
Funky ‘Elle King meets Miranda Lambert’ vibes define ‘Double Wide World,’ a spirited ode to small-town Southern life. With handclaps, fiddles, and infectious energy, the song captures the essence of rural living while celebrating the quirks and characters found within. ‘Skeletons,’ meanwhile, explores themes of secrecy and addiction with its atmospheric production and compelling chorus. The song’s introspective lyrics and gospel-style backing vocals create a haunting yet captivating listening experience that will sound so good as part of Walker County’s live shows.
The fiery, drum-driven ‘What You Don’t Get’ delivers a powerful message of female strength and resilience. With an original melody and foot-stomping energy, the song showcases Walker County’s unique blend of traditional and contemporary country sounds in a unique and original chorus that will put one hell of a huge smile on your face.
The album closes with three incredibly poignant and mature songs. ‘Handwritten’ offers a personal reflection on love and values, inspired by a letter from the sisters’ grandfather to their grandmother from the frontlines of World War II in 1942. Against a backdrop of tender balladry, Ivy and Sophie express a longing for authenticity and connection in a fast-paced world. ‘Two Birds,’ meanwhile, explores the complexities of relationships and heartbreak with its relatable lyrics and gentle melodies. The song’s introspective vibe and evocative storytelling make it a standout track on the album.
Closing the album is the title track, ‘Painted Ponies,’ a poignant ballad that uses a carousel analogy to explore the cyclical nature of relationships. With its Broadway-esque musicality and heartfelt lyrics, the song serves as a beautiful conclusion to an album filled with depth and emotion.
‘Painted Ponies’ offers a rich tapestry of country sounds woven with empowering messages and poignant storytelling. The sisters bring forth a compelling blend of traditional country elements with modern twists, captivating listeners from start to finish. There are albums that come to define the direction, power and soul of musical artists – these type of albums change the trajectory of whole careers if the creators of them are lucky enough – ‘Painted Ponies’ is that album for Walker County. They know who they are now and what they want to sound like and say. Let’s hope that this is the beginning, after ten years in Nashville, of a long and wonderful journey.
Tracklist: 1. 20% 2. The Thing About Fences 3. Hits Home 4. Settling’s for Dust 5. Double Wide World 6. Small Pond 7. Skeletons 8. What You Don’t Get 9. Handwritten 10. Two Birds 11. Painted Ponies Release Date: April 12th Record Label: Independent Buy ‘Painted Ponies’ right here.
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