joy burklund & her band Release Outstanding Debut Album ‘Songbouquet’

Philadelphia-based indie rock outfit joy burklund & her band dropped their debut album, Songbouquet, a few days ago. Produced by Mattie Chaya Kimberly Klauser (of Pillow Princess)), Songbouquet features a wide-ranging lineup of trans and queer collaborators, including guest vocalists Sam Rise, Amber Jane (of Moondrifts), and Zaza Diana Oh.

Talking about Songbouquet, joy burklund shares, “When I first started writing what would become this record, I felt shy about these tunes. I thought- they’re too dramatic to appeal and too disparate to congeal! But as I befriended these songs, each a flower of her own, I learned how they belong together. Like how the highlights belong next to the shadows, the screams next to the whispers next to the chants, and the longing next to the gratitude. Three years later, I’m struck by the golden optimism in these songs. It’s something I had to dig for to make it through that phase, earlier in my transition. It’s not always easy to feel strong and courageous. I’m glad I bottled some, for whatever’s next. So here’s my offering. They’re all love songs.”

Songbouquet encompasses a baker’s dozen tracks. Entry points include “On the Line,” vaguely reminiscent of Tom Petty with its tints of Southern rock and soft, glowing vocal harmonies. A raw guitar solo, under careful control, equips the tune with luscious, grimy tones.

A personal favorite because of its Midwestern soft rock flow, “Emotion” offers graceful, evocative vocals. “Not Gonna Fall,” an Americana-laced song, reveals intensely poignant emotions.

“But I’m not gonna fall in love with you / You just rocked my boat so hard / Might put this paddle to water / Else I stay and fall in love with you / But I’m too hurt to swim / Fallin in is that much harder.”

A confessional, coated in gentle melancholy, “Next Life” blends fingerpicked guitar with sensitive strings. Another favorite because of its gleaming guitars and contagious rhythm, “Sunrays” summons up suggestions of Hootie & The Blowfish, providing a low-slung feel-good sensation.

“Words Song,” featuring Zaza Diana Oh, verges on pop-punk, throwing in an unexpected yet wonderfully enhancing flugelhorn that imbues the tune with vibrant zest.

There’s a big romantic appeal to Songbouquet, highlighted by thoughtfully selected sonic flavors, and deep, revealing feelings.

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