New York-based artist Rachael Sage has long been celebrated as a vivid musical storyteller, crafting immersive visual and sonic landscapes across her eclectic discography. With the arrival of her latest release, ‘Canopy’, Sage invites listeners into a collection of songs that radiate compassion and offer a sense of refuge in turbulent times. Marking her first album under the banner Rachael Sage & The Sequins, it showcases raw, introspective lyricism and timeless songwriting – an essential body of work that feels both urgent and comforting.
Echoing the rainbow-hued album cover, ‘Canopy’ is Sage’s first project to fully embrace and celebrate her place within the LGBTQ+ community. Among its standout tracks is the heartfelt, Van Morrison-inspired “Just Enough” – a glowing anthem that reminds anyone facing adversity or judgment that being true to oneself is more than enough. This message aligns seamlessly with Sage’s role as an ambassador for UK charity Rainbow Mind, which supports LGBTQ+ youth by fostering safe spaces and raising awareness across the UK and beyond.
The spirit of The Sequins shines throughout the album, contributing to its lush, organic soundscapes. Notable collaborators include violinist Kelly Halloran (Lainey Wilson, Goo Goo Dolls) and blues-rock harmonica virtuoso Will Wilde (Walter Trout), whose earthy textures add a live, intimate feel: mirroring the warmth and celebration of Sage’s live performances.
Departing slightly from her acoustic folk roots, ‘Canopy’ sees Sage leaning into her piano prowess and retro-pop sensibilities. The buoyant ‘Live It Up’ is a brass-infused celebration of connection and joy, laced with witty lyrics and a playful spirit. It sits beautifully alongside more tender offerings like, ‘The Best Version’, and ‘Belong To You’, which meditate on growth, devotion, and self-discovery.
The album’s final single, ‘Nexus’, mesmerizes with whisper-soft vocals and a melancholic string arrangement, exploring themes of grief, resilience, and mutual upliftment. It encapsulates the emotional and musical essence of ‘Canopy’. Another highlight, the closing track. ‘Underneath’, leaves listeners contemplative and spellbound, pondering a world beyond despair.
Drawing well-earned comparisons to icons like Bob Dylan, Sinéad O’Connor, and Alanis Morissette, ‘Canopy’ transcends the boundaries of a traditional album. It’s a cinematic journey – balancing unflinching honesty, folk-pop Americana textures, nostalgic vibrancy, and a heartfelt mission to foster empathy.
Stream and download ‘Canopy’ here.
