It makes sense that singer-songwriter Reid Parsons is inspired by architecture. On their debut album, Back to Back, out April 25th, they have designed an evocative and emotionally eloquent music universe from a vast array of building materials.
The Burlington, Vermont-based artist indeed embraces all facets of their creativity on Back to Back. Parsons produced, arranged, and wrote all the songs on the orchestral Americana album—save for a sensual reading of Bruce Springsteen’s “I’m On Fire.” Engineer Ben Collette (Trey Anastasio, Susan Tedeschi, Sharon Jones) tracked the album direct to tape with no effects at Burlington’s iconic Tank Recording Studio. Back To Back has been carefully sequenced for vinyl.
Parsons is a fearless and freewheeling musician whose work veers into jazz, blues, classical, soul, funk, rock, pop, and country with reverence and grace. This vibrant patchwork is threaded together by fine song craft, a well-developed production aesthetic, elegantly expressive vocals, and impressionistic and concise lyrics.
Parsons’ eclectic and earthy sensibility invites comparisons to Anaïs Mitchell, Frazey Ford, Bonnie Raitt, and Susan Tedeschi. To date, Reid has released eight singles and two EPs. The recording of Parsons’ first EP was funded by securing first place in a local singer-songwriter competition.
Back to Back is a COVID-19 baby, and many of its songs were written during lockdown self-reflection. Thematically, the 10-song album explores relationships, mental well-being, and coming of age.
Today, Glide is offering an exclusive premiere of the album in its entirety. Across the album’s 10 tracks, we get to hear just how dynamic and eclectic of an approach Parsons takes to writing and composing music. This is beautiful stuff that works in a kaleidoscope of influences ranging from folk and Americana to soul and bossa nova, with hints of blues and jazz thrown in for good measure. Upon listening to the album as a cohesive piece, the takeaway is that Parsons is crafting the kind of gorgeous songs that beckon more listeners with their musical beauty as well as their emotional resonance.
Parsons reflects on the inspiration behind the album:
It feels meaningful to finally say this project is complete and ready to be shared. I gave the music time to evolve—stepping away, returning, and letting it grow at its own pace—and I’m proud of where it’s landed. Sharing something personal always comes with vulnerability, but music is how I find clarity and connection. I hope this album brings a sense of steadiness to anyone who listens.
LISTEN:
One Response
Big big Reid Parsons fan!!