Thursday, February 13, 2020

Album Review: William Prince, Reliever (Six Shooter)



The world is opening up for William Prince. Fresh from opening a series of shows for Americana powerhouse Yola, William Prince has released a stellar sophomore record, Reliever. This 11 song collection comes at the conclusion of a challenging time for Prince, with the themes of these significant life changes finding their way on the album. What results is a record that can provide healing, hope and inspiration to the listener. This project is a great reminder that all things do pass, including the dark chapters of life. 

The album presents itself almost as a book, with chapters of the pain and disappointment of divorce and separation captured in songs "The Spark" and "Always Have What We Had" being followed up immediately by "Wasted", the title track "Reliever" and "Old Souls" showing the listener that once you get through those life changes, better is waiting for you. "Old Souls" in particular provides a brilliant transition in this project, as we move from the pain and promise of old and new relationships to life itself. Prince's son was the inspiration for "That's All I'll Ever Become", while the death of his father was the inspiration for "Leave It By the Sea." The writing, context and song placement is among the best I've ever heard on an album.

William Prince is poised to become the next big Americana artist that we'll all be talking about. It's much deserved. The voice is there, the songwriting is there, but most of all the person is there. The only time I've met Prince is to shake his hand and say "well done" on a great performance. But in attending the record release for Reliever last week it became apparent that this gentleman is an amazingly good person. Prince's outlook on life is so positive that it's infectious. It's my great hope this excellent record and the artist receive all the accolades they deserve.




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