Gracie Mauk – Vol. 1 (2024)
Embracing her passion for music at an early age, singer-songwriter Gracie Mauk began studying classical piano at the tender age of 4. Yet, while her fingers walked across the classical sphere, her heart lay in vintage pop and rock ‘n’ roll melodies – a specific favourite being the Beatles. Hailing from Ohio, Mauk has gained national attention touring steadily at concert halls, bars, weddings, and churches; however, just as significant as she is across the Midwest, her music is turning heads internationally reaching Europe and beyond. The latest addition to her discography is her debut EP, Vol. 1.
While songs released in May, June and July embrace the joy of summertime, Mauk’s EP celebrates the beauty of winter. Following the well-received singles ‘The Emptiness Inside’ and ‘The Good Fight’, Vol. 1 is a rollercoaster ride of emotion interwoven with endearing melodies – a masterful understanding of sonic complexity and simplicity. Performed by J. Ronquillo (bass), Brandon Benson (drums), Nick Kiekenapp (guitar), and Anthony Marchese (cello), with Mauk on piano and vocals, Vol. 1 is, as Mauk explains, “…recorded these songs just like they did in the 1970s…” which can explain the intimacy, intensity and wistful nostalgia of its tone.
Opening with ‘Living Afraid’, Ronquillo’s bass leads us into Vol. 1 with a steady but pulsating beat and is quickly joined by Benson’s hard-hitting drums. While interspersed piano and soaring guitars exist in the track, ‘Living Afraid’ is simplistic in its lower register capturing the darkness of fearfulness and its heart-catching vulnerability. Yet, as ‘Living Afraid’ offers a hint of tragedy, the second track, ‘Strangers’ is somewhat lighter, laidback and hopeful.
One aspect I enjoy about Vol. 1 is the variety of pace with its rollercoaster rush in only four tracks: four powerful tracks. Choosing a favourite song is difficult, but I teeter between ‘The World We Knew’ and the focus track ‘The Everlasting Spring’. The former oozing upbeat, high-energy, danceable vibes, and the latter’s haunting effect presented with a tender piano and heart-breaking cello.
Interestingly, while Gracie Mauk can sit at modern-day folk-pop tables with Adele and Ellie Goulding, Vol. 1 is a nostalgic breath of 70s folk. Perhaps it is the way the songs were recorded and arranged, or Mauk’s means of bringing retro sounds to life, Vol. 1 reminds me of Carole King and Janis Ian.
Soothing and sincere, listening to this EP is like sharing a hot chocolate with an old friend instead of a new acquaintance. I am eager for more from Gracie Mauk, but have only one concern: has she peaked too soon, and will future material be as exciting? Only time will tell, but in the meantime be sure to check out this outstanding talent.
Find out more about Gracie Mauk on her Instagram and Spotify.
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