There is only one Earth, so every human should strive to keep the planet as clean as possible. Unfortunately, with big corporations and celebrities putting their money towards harming the Earth, that can be hard. But small acts, such as properly recycling, can help. Even simply spreading awareness can inspire someone to make a change.
Science teacher Abby Taylor and her band The Mother Lovers strive to make that change. Using music, The Mother Lovers bring awareness to several issues on this planet. On April 22, Earth Day, they released their first album, “Borrowed Time.”
The title track is a good start to the album. It has an upbeat instrumental with slightly melancholy lyrics, which makes for an interesting combination.
I give “Borrowed Time” a 6/10.
“Common Ground” is not my personal favorite. In fact, I’d say it’s my least favorite on the album. However, it’s still enjoyable. None of the songs on the album are inherently bad.
I give “Common Ground” a 4/10.
While “High Hopes” isn’t something I’d normally listen to, it’s still a great song. The guitar is phenomenal, making this one of my favorite instrumentals on the album.
I give “High Hopes” a 5/10.
The next song on the album, “Double the Trouble,” has a jazzy feel to it. The lyrics seem very sassy, and Taylor’s harmony with band member Lisa Wynn works great.
I give “Double the Trouble” a 7/10.
It’s a hard skill for musicians to make repetitive songs work. However, The Mother Lovers have this nailed. “Just Love Me” has very delicate vocals that make the lyrics just perfect.
I give “Just Love Me” an 8/10.
“Sometimes” is tied with another track for my favorite song on the album. The Mother Lovers truly know how to create a lovely sounding song with important lyrics that flow smoothly.
I give “Sometimes” a 10/10.
The next song on the album, “Steal Away,” was written with Taylor’s students in mind. That adds an extra layer of sweetness to the beautiful song with its excellent instrumentals.
I give “Steal Away” a 9/10.
“I Don’t Know” feels a lot sadder than the rest of the songs. It’s another gorgeous track with depressing lyrics that are relatable to many people.
I give “I Don’t Know” a 7/10.
Tied for my favorite song, “WhateverLand” is another beautiful track. The sultry flow of vocals makes the song enjoyable all the way through. If I were to recommend this album to someone, I would suggest they listen to this song first.
I give “WhateverLand” a 10/10.
At the talent show earlier in the year, Taylor performed “Mother Earth.” I found it absolutely beautiful and was happy to discover they put out an album. It’s a fun song with an important message, and an absolute must listen to anyone interested.
I give “Mother Earth” a 9/10.
I had the privilege of speaking with Taylor about the band and its message. It’s clear just from talking to her that she truly cares about what she’s singing.
“I mean, making our relationship to the resources that we’re using has got to become more important just everywhere for everybody,” said Taylor. “And I think with music I try to put that message in there. Music can get the actual message across.”
Several of the songs on the album are not just about healing the planet. The Mother Lovers tackle subjects such as addiction, relationships, and overall hard times.
“And so through the music, I think if you put that message in the music, it can sometimes help, it’ll get in the memories of people and maybe embolden them to face some of those challenges,” said Taylor.
Overall, with their lovely vocals and instrumentals, The Mother Lovers are certainly something to check out. Their music reminds me of Fiona Apple with 60s inspiration, and the professionalism is certainly there. If anyone is looking for relaxing music with an important message, “Borrowed Time” is what they should listen to.
I give the album an 8/10.
