Stars

The former Golden Palominos singer's solo work explores a personal world that turns ethereal for her fourth album, Stars. Lori Carson's previous album, the masterful Everything I Touch Runs Wild, was a career high point. Rather than following that with a continuation of its earthy acoustic vision and ending up with a mere copy, Carson smartly expands her sound and lets the melodies follow her dreaming. "16 Days" sets the pace, with a gorgeous shimmer that sounds like a heightened daydream. The guitars, keyboards, and delicate drums further create a sublime atmosphere for "Take Your Time," where Carson's layered vocals comfort a difficult world. On first listen, many of the textures feel light and airy: ephemeral pleasures that skate away into the ether. Yet over time the magnetic pull is palpable, and the emotional truth and heaviness of "Breathe," "Rainy Day,” and "Fourth of July" reveal themselves. Carson’s one of the most underrated singers of her generation. She deserves your attention.