Abby Johnson - “I Dare You”

Upon the release of the new LP from Nashville-based Abby Johnson, we have been served with the single, “I Dare You,” which has rightfully won us over as fans.

Pressing play on this track invites you into a dark and gritty world of intuitive Americana. Right out of the gate, the guitar manages to hit all of the tell-tale tones that this is not just some mislabeled piece of alt-country, but, instead, a song that bumps the knuckles of folk and indie rock. We’re picking up the vibes of Sharon Van Etten and Big Thief and we’ve been waiting for a track to do this all year.

To further demonstrate this, Johnson’s vocal emerges, moody and subdued as it delivers lines above a barebones arrangement, with brief appearances from lap steel, percussion, and bass– but only enough to use as evidence of their existence. It is not until about a half minute deep that “I Dare You” bursts to life with the hook, but when it does, it is nothing short of epic.

The rising vocal work on the chorus creates an instant ear worm that you will likely be trying to sing for the rest of the week. The use of falsetto brings a level of emotion to the performance that we were not quite anticipating, but it’s the kind of sound that leads you to believe that the universe brought this song into your life for a reason.

The bridge reveals a string arrangement and dynamic shift that will keep you returning for multiple listens. “I Dare You” is such an ambitious piece of songwriting that we had to check out more of Johnson’s new, self-titled record. So if you’re liking what you hear, we suggest spinning the more upbeat sounds of “Wonder Why,” especially if you enjoyed the strings in the previous. Its energetic rhythm will have you tapping your toes before the first chorus strikes.

And, of course, there is the superbly chill sounds of “Watch The Angel Go,” with a sweet, lo-fi rhythm section and vocal harmonies that are truly flavorful. This track is also host to some lead guitar that you will find to be reminiscent of all your favorite late-‘60s psychedelia.

But a safer bet would be to simply play the entire record, which is now available everywhere via Earth Libraries.

-HD