Setting aside 2017's
The Way Is Read, an adventurous collaboration with chamber ensemble
yMusic,
Good Woman is
the Staves' first self-penned album in six years. Among its heavy inspirations were the death of the trio's mother, dissolved relationships, and the birth of eldest sister
Emily's first child, all contributing to the idea of what it means to be a "good woman."
John Congleton (
The Decemberists,
Angel Olsen) produced the album, which proves to be a poignant, philosophical set. The opening title track's soothing, soft rock sound accompanies enumerated qualities, like being able to stiffen resolve, being kind, carrying the load of others, and forgiving. It then asks, "But who'll build statues of me when I leave you all behind?" The song has one of the few solo lead vocals on an album that mostly drifts between unisons and three-part harmonies within each track. Another entry with a defined lead vocal is the like-minded "Devotion," whose choruses close with "Devotion be the death of me." Its airy synths, twinkling piano, and steady drums also recall the mellower side of '70s and '80s pop. On the more acoustic end of the spectrum is the folky "Nothing's Gonna Happen," a tender showcase for their three-part harmonies, and the sparse, piano-based "Waiting on Me to Change" ("Said you're waiting on me to change/Whatcha doin' that for?"), which edges toward wistful
Carole King melodicism. Elsewhere, the cautionary "Careful, Kid" opts for unexpectedly grungier textures alongside its sparkling keys. Despite subtle shifts in arrangements, the songs of
Good Woman share a certain world-weariness that's balanced with a refreshing self-assurance that -- like the sisters' elegant, blended vocal harmonies -- never loses its composure. ~ Marcy Donelson