This year turned out to be truly fruitful for the music scene, bringing many new talents, bright debuts, and powerful projects that captured the attention of listeners and critics. Among them is the talented singer and songwriter Spencer Sanders, whose music and creativity have managed to win the hearts of many. He quickly gained recognition thanks to his unique voice and sincere lyrics. His music, reflecting the experiences of a gay person with bipolar disorder, offers a genre exploration of life with its highs, lows, and difficult moments. He aims to provide the audience with an emotional experience expressed through powerful vocal performances. For Spencer, the vibrations in the song and their lyrics are an important element. The singer’s debut album “Almanac: Volume 1” was released on September 20, 2024. Produced by Dean Miller and Landon Alley, the album became the musical version of Sanders’ inner growth and self-discovery. The arrangement, created by an outstanding team of musicians and co-writers, adds depth to the record through rich and textured instrumentation. Weaving elements of folk-pop, Americana, chamber pop, country folk, and indie rock, his songs sound lush and cinematic. “Almanac: Volume 1” includes 8 songs, but I will focus on a few of them.

Photo by Whitney Ashby

The first single of the album, “Rust,” was released in May of this year, marking the beginning of the singer’s career with a soulful note. The song is about the darkness of inner struggle and a painful moment. Written in the solitude of the night, it is a way to come to terms with the loss of friends who chose their traditional views, neglecting the support of his queer identity. “Rust” has a sonic texture filled with the sound of a music box, symbolizing a longing for times when everything was simpler. The visually striking music video, directed by Brennon Harding and filmed in Sanders’ bedroom, embodies his emotional struggle. The song is characterized by a deep atmosphere of melancholy and captivating, ephemeral beauty. Feeling lonely, many seek comfort in art that conveys deep emotions, an experience especially close to Spencer. His track “Wishing Wells” stands out with an atmosphere of solitude and quiet contemplation. Listening to this song, Spencer’s emotions come through vividly, his images so clear they seem almost tangible.

Although, to be honest, my absolute favorite on this album became the track “Paradise Found.” Spencer’s soulful vocals wrap you in their warmth, and the lyrics prompt reflection on life and the world. The instrumental parts, with their refined and layered sound, only emphasize the depth of the song. But what is especially captivating is Sam Hunter’s mandolin, whose smooth and touching sounds are mesmerizing. This track takes the music experience to a new level, creating an unforgettable feeling of unity with it.

The album “Almanac: Volume 1” presents an honest and multifaceted sound. The singles included in the record strengthen Spencer Sanders’ reputation as a bright and unique voice in the contemporary music scene. For example, the track “Iced Moonshine” is a bold genre experiment in which country elements intertwine with reflections on destructive relationships and addiction. Sanders explores not only personal suffering but also the common issues that can arise in romantic relationships when addiction takes over. He sings about how complex emotional cycles and harmful habits can ruin lives, leaving pain and emptiness in their wake. This song represents a vicious circle – craving, destruction, craving again. The sounds of country music and minimalist instruments convey an atmosphere that emphasizes desperation and the agonizing return to old, destructive habits. “Almanac: Volume 1” is a collection of carefully crafted lyrics, filled with symbolism and layered motifs, as for Spencer, music is first and foremost poetry.

Photo by @indyjoyfilms

The closing single “Golden Age” is a song about a crucial moment in the singer’s life, when he finds the strength within himself to break free from chains and be honest with himself and others. Sanders shares his experience of embracing his true essence, his struggle to live for himself, not for others. The song carries a promise to his partner to remain faithful, to give love and stability despite all the difficulties faced. The golden age mentioned in the song is an era of freedom, self-respect, and mutual love.

Spencer Sanders’ debut album “Almanac: Volume 1” is a revelation, filled with a vast range of emotions. The album features genre experiments and masterful vocal control that are impossible to overlook. By sharing his personal experience, Spencer draws the listener into the whirlwind of his passions. Symbolism and deep song lyrics showcase his unique perspective on life and art.

Rating Album: Almanac: Volume 1
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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