Man Made Hills, the project of James Carrancio who recently transplanted from Brooklyn, NY to Rhode Island, delivers a profoundly moving and introspective album with "A Sad Good Ol' Time." Written in the six weeks following the passing of his mother, this album is an unflinchingly honest exploration of grief, resilience, and the painful yet necessary journey of moving forward.

The album opens with a series of tracks that delve deeply into the raw emotions of loss. Each song in the first half is a testament to the artist's ability to convey the complexity of mourning through heartfelt lyrics and evocative melodies. The title track, "A Sad Good Ol' Time," serves as a poignant centerpiece, capturing the bittersweet moments of his mother's memorial service. It's an emotional rollercoaster, filled with laughter, tears, and love, perfectly encapsulating the duality of such a significant life event.

One of the standout qualities of the album is the impeccable voice of the artist. His warm, inviting timbre draws listeners in, making them feel as though they are sitting with a close friend who is baring his soul. This connection is further strengthened by the storytelling prowess displayed throughout the album. Each song paints a vivid picture, drawing the listener into the narrative and allowing them to experience the highs and lows alongside the artist. There’s a rawness and intimacy about this whole album that comes through in such a fresh way too.

The instrumentation on "A Sad Good Ol' Time" is both diverse and dynamic. The arrangements range from stripped-back acoustic numbers that let the lyrics take center stage, to more explosive tracks where the instrumentation rises to match the emotional intensity of the moment. This careful balance ensures that each song makes its intended impact, whether it’s through a quiet, contemplative melody or a powerful, driving rhythm.

As the album transitions into its second half, starting with "Figure It Out," the tone shifts from mourning to healing. These tracks are infused with a sense of tentative hope and determination, as the artist begins to piece his life back together. There is an underlying acknowledgment that things will never be the same, but there is also a resilience and a will to find a new way forward. The songwriting remains strong, with lyrics that are both reflective and forward-looking, capturing the essence of moving on while still honoring the past.

"A Sad Good Ol' Time" is not just an album; it is a deeply personal narrative that resonates on a universal level. The themes of loss, love, and healing are ones that everyone can relate to, and the artist's ability to articulate these experiences through music is truly remarkable. We truly cannot imagine being in James’ shoes, reliving these experiences, and then putting them to paper.

Overall, it’s really a masterful exploration of the human condition. This album is sure to resonate with anyone who has experienced loss and is looking for a musical companion to help them through the process of healing. Go ahead and please click those links below to listen and follow along.

Listen to "A Sad Good Ol' Time"

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