Life works in a delicate balance, a push and pull of tragedy and hope. Americana singer-songwriter Sammy Kay teeters with acrobatic ease between both facets of the human condition across the entirety of his new record. A storybook by nature, civil/WAR depicts a smorgasbord of characters — many of them weary and downtrodden from addiction, mental health, death, suicide, and heartache. Kay, whose voice is unmistakably shattering, has played with or onstage alongside iconic bands such as The Gaslight Anthem, Mumford & Sons, American Aquarium, and The Bouncing Souls. His impressive resume has certainly not diluted the craft itself; even after he wanted to walk away from the industry altogether, the songs inside his head drew him back in again.
Kay’s new single, the ghostly and stunning “Jim’s Ride Home,” is a testament to the artist’s songwriting abilities. The acoustic outing is brimming with raspy vocals gently cascading over twinkling finger plucking, creating an ethereal feel with earthly undertones. Despite the otherworldly gentleness of “Jim’s Ride Home,” Kay can make the song feel like home. His rugged vocal tones make every sentiment feel palpable as he pens moving poetry that brings the somber tones to life. “Jim’s Ride Home” evokes the feeling of classic country music as Kay approaches nuanced tropes that blend for a beautifully twangy ballad.
