The dynamic duo of Shovels & Rope, consisting of Cary Ann Hearst and Michael Trent, has delivered yet another emotionally charged, genre-blending album with their latest release, Something Is Working Up Above My Head. Known for their ability to seamlessly mix elements of folk, rock, Americana, and southern soul, this album marks a further evolution of their sound—a reflection of their ever-growing musical maturity, while retaining the raw intensity and vulnerability that made them fan favorites from the start.
A Musical Journey Through Soul and Spirit
Something Is Working Up Above My Head presents a deeply introspective and introspectively expansive set of tracks that showcase the duo’s signature blend of earthy, roots-driven melodies and emotional storytelling. The title itself feels like a direct expression of the personal and collective struggles, triumphs, and mysteries that lie just beyond our grasp—an enigmatic, yet hopeful message of unseen forces working on behalf of those who dare to live and dream.
The album opens with a blend of dusty guitar strums and layered harmonies, immediately setting the tone for an album that is both rugged and refined. From there, the songs move fluidly between reflective ballads and foot-stomping anthems, drawing listeners into Shovels & Rope’s signature world of paradox—where light and darkness exist side-by-side, and every moment of joy is tempered by the awareness of life’s impermanence.
A Focus on the Heart and Soul
One of the album’s key strengths is its focus on themes of faith, family, and the search for meaning in an unpredictable world. The songs on Something Is Working Up Above My Head don’t just explore personal introspection; they delve into collective human experiences with an authenticity and sincerity that resonates deeply.
Songs like “Looking for Love,” with its catchy rhythm and heartfelt lyrics, reveal the vulnerability of both characters in the relationship as they search for the kind of love that transcends time and space. The duo’s vocal interplay, with Hearst’s powerful, evocative voice complementing Trent’s gruff, grounded delivery, creates an intoxicating chemistry that draws listeners in from the first note.
Meanwhile, tracks like “Heaven’s Gate” take on more of a gospel-tinged, Americana vibe, marrying lush arrangements with soul-baring lyrics that address themes of redemption and grace. The spiritual undertones found throughout the album evoke feelings of longing and hope, giving Something Is Working Up Above My Head a sense of universality that will appeal to anyone who has ever found themselves searching for meaning, solace, or connection in life.
A Layered and Diverse Sound
While Shovels & Rope have long been known for their lo-fi charm and acoustic sensibilities, Something Is Working Up Above My Head adds new layers of complexity to their music. The production is lush, with rich arrangements that make use of piano, strings, and brass instruments to enhance the emotional weight of each track. This is especially evident in the album’s slower songs, where the minimalistic instrumentation gives way to expansive, cinematic soundscapes.
At times, Something Is Working Up Above My Head feels like a celebration of Southern musical traditions—rooted in folk, blues, and country—but it is also a thoroughly modern exploration of the human condition. Tracks like “Wasted” infuse elements of indie rock and folk-punk, while “Whistleblower” brings in echoes of alt-country with jangly guitars and rollicking rhythms.
Throughout the album, there is a sense of freedom in the performances, as if Hearst and Trent are allowing themselves to fully explore the breadth of their musical influences while staying true to their artistic vision. The result is an album that feels both expansive and deeply personal, with each track offering a different side of the duo’s creative range.
Why You Should Listen
Something Is Working Up Above My Head is a testament to Shovels & Rope’s ability to craft music that is both deeply intimate and universally relatable. Whether you’re drawn to their poetic lyrics, the intricacy of their melodies, or the raw energy of their live performances, this album promises to connect with listeners on multiple levels. With its themes of love, loss, and the unknown, this album speaks to the shared human experience, reminding us that no matter where we come from, we all search for something greater than ourselves.
For long-time fans of Shovels & Rope, Something Is Working Up Above My Head will feel like a natural evolution of their sound. For new listeners, it offers an accessible entry point into the duo’s remarkable catalog, full of soul-searching lyrics, unforgettable melodies, and that undeniable chemistry that makes their music so captivating.
In short, this album is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates authentic, emotionally resonant music that refuses to be pigeonholed into a single genre. It’s a celebration of the human spirit, and a reminder that sometimes the most important thing is to keep searching—whether for love, for meaning, or for the forces working above our heads.
Final Thoughts
Shovels & Rope’s Something Is Working Up Above My Head is more than just an album; it’s an experience. From the very first track, it takes you on a journey through the highs and lows of life, with the duo’s signature blend of heartfelt lyrics, evocative melodies, and lush instrumentation. Whether you’re a diehard fan or a newcomer to their music, this album is sure to resonate deeply and leave you reflecting on its themes long after the final note fades.