Released 10 years ago
Free Soul
Madeline Merlo · 2016
38 min · 11 tracks · country music
A heartfelt blend of contemporary country and folk, infused with introspective lyrics and melodic hooks that linger long after listening.
Top tracks — play these first
-
→
War Paint — This track stands out with its powerful exploration of personal strength and resilience, featuring a catchy chorus that draws listeners into its empowering message.
-
→
Holding on to Freedom — The song's introspective lyrics paired with a vibrant melody encapsulate the essence of seeking independence, making it a perfect anthem for self-discovery.
-
→
Sinking Like a Stone — With poignant storytelling and emotional delivery, this track reveals vulnerability while examining the weight of heartbreak, showcasing Merlo's songwriting prowess.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases solid songwriting and production but remains within familiar country tropes.
What we noticed
- Several songs incorporate layered vocal harmonies, particularly in the chorus, enhancing the emotional impact of the lyrics.
- The album closes with a ballad that gradually builds in intensity, culminating in a powerful vocal performance.
- Composition 25% of the score
-
6/10
- Craft 20% of the score
-
7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
-
5/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
-
5/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
-
6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady, consistent energy levels
- heartfelt storytelling immersion
- contemplative evening listening sessions
- dynamic emotional journeys
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released on April 29, 2016, 'Free Soul' was Madeline Merlo's debut studio album following her rise to prominence as a country artist in Canada. At this point, she had already garnered attention with her earlier EPs and singles, setting the stage for a more cohesive artistic statement.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Kacey Musgraves· Maggie Rogers· Brandi Carlile
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
-
War Paint
The moment shifts from self-doubt to empowerment as the narrator declares their readiness to face challenges head-on.
This transition not only emphasizes growth but also marks a significant turning point in the narrative arc of the song.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Whatcha Wanna Do About It 3:31
- 2 War Paint 3:24
- 3 Over and Over 3:19
- 4 Holding on to Freedom 3:29
- 5 Tumbling 3:37
- 6 Honey Jack 3:08
- 7 Ready to Say Goodnight 3:54
- 8 Crush 3:27
- 9 Sinking Like a Stone 3:57
- 10 Alive 3:35
- 11 Twist of Fate 3:32
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.