Annie Stokes - Ghostwriter
Self-released
***
This album from Virginia singer-songwriter Annie Stokes, introduces a singer fully in command of her vocal gifts and a songwriter who enfolds her lyric sensibility in inventive musical sketches. She presents her songs with on-point sly and sweet vocals, there is a fascinating intimate portrayal of a singer-songwriter who evokes folk-styled music in its purest form. Putting a spotlight on her personal life, Annie has created an entertaining compilation of songs that illustrate the triumphs and obstacles of pursuing a music career and balancing relationships and home life with touring and performing. Being a working musician and mother of two has made for rich subject matter and captivating tunes. Openly reflecting on topics such as self-doubt, grief, gender dynamics, past relationships and double standards, Annie demonstrates versatility and growth in her songwriting. She stands before us without shame, sharing her truths and telling us what she wants, allowing herself to be vulnerable and dancing with that freedom. This loose unself-consciousness especially reveals itself on the album’s most intimate track, Built To Last, an honest love song to her husband who sings backing vocals on all of her recordings. The melody is delicious, Annie’s vocal is heartfelt and the whole song is shiny and blessed with warmth and joy.
Her songs are mainly sophisticated modern folk-pop more than traditional folk—except Country Wife—a toe-tapping hoedown, with her skilled banjo playing to the fore. She makes whimsy feel profound in this fiddle-driven tongue-in-cheek nod to the old-school role of women in life. It’s a sad reality that society, on some level, still expects women to choose between their careers and their families; artists like Annie Stokes are solid proof that many can, and will if they so choose, pursue both. Her vocals are soft and measured as the banjo tiptoes alongside her as she passes The Tarot Reader’s House.Twenty-three is a toe-tapping blend of Americana influences with the optimistic message that however bad things get, there is always light at the end of the tunnel. A bold vocal, the lyric front and centre, and sharp electric guitar work give this song, about mid-twenties female bonding, a little more of a west coast country-rock vibe.
Twice As High is forthright, sombre and subtly strong. She points at how being a female in the music business is tough, even more so for a mother with a couple of kids. But despite experiencing prejudice from male colleagues, she has constantly proved to be as capable as any guy. She closes this collection with Ghostwriter. Over an innovative blend of banjo, guitars, fiddle and vocals, the music is adroitly executed, coming across a little like a Celtic folk tune. A meticulous assemblage that comes across as more of a mirage than a mere collage, as Annie breathes life and growth with a sincerity and a newly founded optimism.
March 2025