On January 11th, 2019, Canadian country artist Kira Isabella gave us what we’ve been waiting for since Side A was released- and that’s Side B. Following in suit with the first release, Side B reignites this emotional, edgy sound that’s defined Kira Isabella’s new direction, after spending the earliest years of her career in the pop-country sphere. Side B features five new tracks that really complement themes explored in Side A.
We Should Be Together is the releases’ featured track, and fair to say, an anthem for the lovers who like to tease each other. She sings that teasing each other is a waste of time they could be together. This relatable story reminds us how that critical time together is important. The heavy presence of the electric guitar really gives the song a daring, edgy sound; it unifies the music and lyrics. We Should Be Together also spotlights Kira’s range, especially when her voice climbs with the buildup of the music.
Holiday, the EP’s second track, shows Kira Isabella’s quirky side with a playful tune, and equally playful lyrics. It’s definitely a song to add to the playlist to help get us through this frigid Canadian winter weather.
XGF switches gears a little bit. The mature, emotional Kira surfaces in XGF. I will admit that just by the title I was expecting something more upbeat, aggressive, and a get back at the ex kind of song. I was pleasantly surprised when it was a ballad of heartbreak. Kira’s addressed a pretty difficult heartbreak in her last few years, and I can’t help but think this one connected with her at the right time. The song is about coming to accept that a relationship is over and struggling to move on, and see an ex move on. Serious hats off to Kira for this track; genuine, emotional, and relatable- a reminder that heartbreak is shared.
Soon delivers a message we can all appreciate. Kira sings about the build up of intimacy in a new relationship and the undeniable outcome when the waiting is over. With how people can be so eager to jump into new love, it’s a good reminder that taking it slow can really amount to better things. She also acknowledges the appreciation for a patiently waiting man who knows that when she’s ready, it’ll all be worth it. The song is suave and romantic- the way real love should be.
Kira polishes off her EP with Sleep When We’re Dead. We get to experience new love, laid back vacation vibes, an emotional breakup, and new love. Naturally, Sleep When We’re Dead is the end result of going through all of these experiences-inseparable love. The waiting and the disappointment, the trial and error eventually leads up to what we’re looking for eventually. It’s passionate and light-hearted at the same time, exactly what’s needed if you’re like myself and skeptical but hopeful.
We’re happy we got the second half of Kira Isabella’s latest project. Her transition as a musician and artist has been amazing to watch so far!
In country music, the Front Porch has long been a place of reflection. A place where you can look at the life you have inside that front door. A place where time almost seems to stand still, where you can get away. It’s also a place where you can go to observe the world as it passes by you. To think about your place out there beyond the driveway.
