Still immersed in the heartache and healing from a breakup that informed her Billboard 200-charting EP Moral of the Story: Chapter 1 and its squeal, Moral of the Story: Chapter 2, Ashlyn is the full-length debut of California singer and songwriter Ashlyn Willson, better known as Ashe. While she had cited influences like Carole King and the Beach Boys early in her career, Ashlyn was more informed by the likes of Elton John, Queen, and ABBA, a detail evident in the bright melodies and refined harmonies of some of the album's over dozen tracks. (Her Hot 100 single "Moral of the Story" is re-included here). Given that Ashe is an earthbound adult-alternative pop singer/songwriter at heart rather than an astral belter, only softer echoes of Queen and ABBA can be heard on tracks like "I'm Fine," the bubbly, strings-accompanied "Me Without You," and the warm tribute to her brother, "Ryne's Song." Helping brighten surfaces while evoking '70s pop on Ashlyn was producer Big Taste (aka Leroy Clampitt), who also co-wrote most of the tracks. Among other contributors were Tobias Jesso, Jr. (co-writer of "Kansas"), Jenna Andrews ("Serial Monogamist"), and Finneas, who joins her on the wistful duet "Till Forever Falls Apart." The album's personal material and considered, sweet spirit is all Ashe, however, who offers a debut that seems both contemporary and out of time.
© Marcy Donelson /TiVo