Hailing from the low hills of western Kentucky, Melanie A. Davis presents her latest musical offering, the enchanting new album titled Honey Locust. With her roots deeply embedded in the world of theatre, Davis possesses a unique ability to craft songs that are at once emotionally resonant and liberating. Her compositions, brimming with poignant observations on human relationships, exude a profound appreciation for the intricacies of life. From reflective musings on community dynamics to candid contemplations of personal flaws, Davis fearlessly navigates the truths that shape the human experience.
At the heart of Davis’ musical prowess lies her stunning voice, coupled with a keen sense of rhythm and dexterity on the guitar. Drawing inspiration from the vibrant scene of Murray, Kentucky, and its surroundings, she’s carved out a distinct niche for herself. Now, with Honey Locust, her third studio album, Davis invites listeners on a captivating journey through 13 tracks that traverse jazz, folk and doo-wop influences. These compositions peel back the layers of familiar American themes—patriotism, belonging, social responsibility and love—revealing the complex truths that often lie beneath the surface.
The album’s opening song and title track, “Honey Locust,” sets the tone with its sweet vocals and delicate indie folk sound. Davis’ voice, like a gentle breeze, dances above a canvas of acoustic guitar strums and bright Americana-inflected chords. The result is an enchanting and immersive sonic experience that draws listeners in from the very start.
“Lightbulb Stars” continues the journey with a playful arrangement that spotlights Davis’ intricate vocal layers. Supported by the subtle rhythm of guitar and tambourine, this track captures the essence of timeless folk sounds, creating a musical tapestry that’s elegant and inviting.
A standout on the album, “The River,” embraces a laid-back alternative folk vibe. The song effortlessly shifts between intimate moments and atmospheric tones, reflecting the versatile songwriting prowess that Davis possesses. As the album nears its conclusion, “Magnolia” closes the record, showcasing Davis’ songwriting brilliance and captivating performance style. This track serves as a fitting endnote to an album that traverses a wide range of emotions and themes.
Throughout Honey Locust, Melanie A. Davis deftly navigates the intricacies of existence, weaving together stories that resonate deeply with listeners. Her ability to marry profound lyricism with jazz-inspired folk arrangements reveals the depth of her creative ingenuity. With this album, Davis confirms her status as a musical storyteller, guiding audiences through the tangled web of emotions and experiences that make up the human journey. Honey Locust is a work of art that captures the essence of life’s complexities, leaving a lasting mark on the listener’s heart and soul.
We caught up with Melanie to find out more about her musical journey so far, her new record Honey Locust and what she’s got lined up for the future. Check out our interview with Melanie A. Davis below.
Hey Melanie, how’s things?
Hey! Going great, we’ve been on tour for about two and a half weeks at the time of this interview. Right now, we’re just outside of Madison, Wisconsin waiting to play the Dark Star Art Bar. Feeling tired but honoured to have had this opportunity – plus a little sad that we’re nearing the end of the tour.
What’s your earliest memory of making music?
I used to carry around a little boombox with an attached microphone (that actually played out of the speakers!) when I was really young, maybe 6 or 7. I sang along to the Annie movie soundtrack and Minnie Mouse Clubhouse compilation on tape and wrote my own silly songs, all while singing into that little mic. I used to sing in front of my family all the time, but I would get so nervous that I would make everyone turn around before I’d start.
Which artists do you draw most inspiration from today?
Lyrically, I look to contemporary artists like Father John Misty, David Dondero, and Bedouine. Musically, I really enjoy taking inspiration from Joni Mitchell, Joan Baez, and the vocal stylings of Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday.
How else do you find inspiration for your music?
A lot of my music is inspired by current events that I hear, see, or read about. My personal relationships play a large part in these songs as well – the bonds I have with others, my connection to myself, and how those two interact. I’ve also noticed an unplanned but not unwelcome connection to the natural world – lots of botanical imagery and metaphors.
What do you love about your local music scene?
It’s so unexpected! Living in a little pocket of far western Kentucky, you wouldn’t expect there to be so many talented musicians, let alone so many opportunities to showcase them. But alas, here it is in Murray, KY, supporting and encouraging artists to grow in an environment that doesn’t necessarily promote those types of indie art pursuits, which I think adds to the appreciation and drive of the musicians around here. It’s the definition of blooming where you’re planted. I love it.
What would you say is the perfect setting for listeners to enjoy your sound?
Somewhere relaxed, intimate, and quiet. I put a heavy emphasis on lyrics, and listening room environments tend to showcase them best. Outside of a live performance, I’ve heard that my music goes well with sitting out on your patio, laying in the sun, or taking a bath.
How has your own style and sound evolved since you started out?
When I first started writing original music, it was more along the lines of straight doo-wop. As I picked up the acoustic guitar, a definite folk element made its way into the sound (but I still love adding doo-wop-style background vocals to this day). I feel like my sound has naturally evolved as I’ve listened to and read more, seen more, and explored my instruments a bit further.
How did you find making your new album ‘Honey Locust’?
I recorded Honey Locust in my home studio with my engineer and husband, Fate McAfee. We had long days in the studio where we would hole up in the back room and get as much done as we could, both planned and experimented. It was a fun exercise in exploring new avenues of recording and arrangements without the added pressure you might feel being in and paying for an external studio space. Plus, Fate and I work well together (good thing, too, since we’re hitched, ha!), and having his support and guidance in the studio was an invaluable resource.
What message did you want to get across with this release?
Not everything is as it seems – both the positive and negative. Life has more breathing room than the face value of things might lead you to believe.
What artist have you been listening to most recently?
Recently, I’ve really been enjoying Bedouine and one of my usual go-tos, the Mamas and the Papas. I’ve also been digging into more regional artists, like Julia Cannon and Alicia Gail out of Nashville, TN, Heather Hammers from southern Illinois, and Leonard the Band from Paducah, KY.
What’s the main thing you want people to get out of listening to your music?
I’d love for listeners to connect, be empowered by, or get inspired by my lyrics. Ideally, the songs would serve as an affirming thought in a particular observation of the world around us or a lyrical expression that puts a vague, unnamed feeling to words. I write from and about the female perspective, and I always appreciate when womxn can connect to my music in that way.
What’s been your favourite live performance so far?
This is a hard one, but I think I’d say my favourite performance was at Rockwood Music Hall in New York City in 2019. We pulled up to the venue with minutes to spare before my set (we were traveling from Murray, KY to NYC overnight), and the place was packed and so receptive to the music. It was my first time performing in NYC, and it was a really meaningful, moving night. It was one of those shows that affirm you’re on the right path, both in terms of the show itself and all of the synchronistic moments that happened before, during, and after.
Who would be 3 artists to headline your dream festival? And where would it be?
Another toughie – my dream festival line-up (of currently living artists) would probably have to be Father John Misty, Neil Young, and Kikagaku Moyo. As for where? Selfishly, somewhere I can get to easily, ha – somewhere in west Kentucky preferably!
Do you have any advice for a new artist wanting to follow your footsteps?
Keep going, and try not to compare yourself to others too directly. There’s only a thin veil between the “magic” of the music industry and real life, but when you’re seemingly standing outside of the industry, it can seem a lot different and further off than it is. I’ve always believed that focusing on the art you want to create is the top priority, then the rest will follow in due time.
Finally, what do you have lined up for the rest of 2023?
Once we finish up tour, I’ll be getting back into the swing of weekend gigs and recording. I play bass in a band out of Paducah, KY, called Family Bags, and we have a lot of shows lined up this fall. I’ll also hopefully be mixing and mastering a live album release of this tour that we’ll be putting out close to our western tour in summer 2024.
Listen to Honey Locust below
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