Hello there,
Welcome to this review space where I discuss certain music releases that strike chords within me. In this edition, we will talk about Circle back, start again. by Tina Boonstra.
I remember discovering Tina Boonstra through her performance of “Second Chance” on the GCM Sinai Sessions and immediately adding her to my Deezer back in 2021. After listening to her EP City of Doubt which was released in 2020, and other singles in her discography, I was excited to see her debut album this year after a long wait.
Circle back, start again. is an album that narrates the ordeals of people who are trying to navigate everyday life. Heavy with themes of heartbreak, broken relationships, loss, grief, love, regret, perseverance and encouragement, she shares twelve stories that are inspired by the experiences of multiple characters reflected in each song.
Musically, the album rests within indie-rock and indie-pop blended finely. Her vocals are clean and clear, with subtle harmonies heard in the background. Its unique ambience gives room to guitar strings, drums and keys which combine to produce a distinct indie feel.
This album strongly resonates with me for many reasons. Besides the instrumentation which I am a fan of, the depth of its lyrical content and sensitivity of issues discussed prove that Boonstra is not afraid to express vulnerability and rawness, even with subjects that are heavy and difficult to talk about. As one who is familiar with her previous music singles, there is a consistency evident in her style of delivery — it is honest, true and genuine.
The album has been a constant replay since its release in April and every listen deepens my connection to it. Each track has a unique voice that compels its listener to step into its protagonist’s shoes and share their experience in a real-time manner. Overall, it is an engaging, emotional ride with quality storytelling.
Citing favourites from this album has however proven to be a difficult task, considering the diverse cast of stories to choose from. Nonetheless, I am particularly drawn to "If I could", "Circle back, start again", "Grace Riley", “Call me Thomas” and “Do what we can”.
“If I could” is a lament, sung by someone whose friend suffered the loss of a child. "Circle back, start again", which is the title track, is a story of a person who is unsure of how things would turn out in life but is willing to try again. In “Grace Riley”, Boonstra narrates the regrets of a girl who wished her friend would return after a strange disappearance. “Call Me Thomas” is inspired by the apostle Thomas who doubted Jesus’ resurrection, and bids us to keep seeking Him even when things seem unclear.
“Do what we can” is a conversation between a girl and her old Maths teacher, who emphasizes that life does not always turn out the way we envision it. It is the kind of song that keeps you tapping your toes and nodding your head as you listen to it while being encouraged by its message.
Looking at the track listing on the album, I noticed that songs with heavier themes were set first before the upbeat, lighter ones. I find this arrangement deliberate and intricate, as it helps buttress the idea that life is indeed a cycle of phases as each song ends and moves to the next.
In its own unique way, Circle back, start again. is an album of hope. With twelve songs, Tina Boonstra beckons all to see that there is hope in the midst of chaos and that light can be found after a period of darkness. As a debut album, there is a lot that is impressive about it and I cannot wait to hear more music from her in the future.
Genre(s): Indie Rock, Indie Pop
RATING:4.6/5
Listen Here:
Apple Music • Deezer • Other Links
Connect with Tina Boonstra:
Facebook • Instagram
Bye for now!
Talk to me about your favourite songs on the album. Also, let me know of any other albums or EPs you’d like me to review.
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