Kevin Morby at MASS MoCA: A Record of Duality

Kevin Morby's latest album, 'Singing Saw', marks another stage of growth for the young and gifted songwriter. Recorded in his new home in Mount Washington, Los Angeles, this record is a reflection of his experiences and emotions during that time. By the end of the record on 'Water', Morby is literally begging to be put out once and for all, like a fire that might burn all his visions away.

The album begins with 'Cut Me Down', a song about tears, debts, and a prescient vision of being reduced to nothing. This sets the tone for the rest of the record, which explores themes of beauty, freedom, and rot. Morby's songs are like a singing saw - an instrument that creates ethereal sounds but is also basic and practical, yet fearsome and destructive.

The album was written during a time of transition for Morby, as he settled into his new home and began to explore the neighborhood on foot each night. He would take long walks through the winding hills and side streets, taking in the views of the skyline's sweeping lights and the dark underbrush of LA flora.

Morby's move marked another stage of growth, as he faced the reality that true beauty demands a whole-world balance that includes our darker sides. 'Singing Saw' is a record written simply and realized orchestrally, with Morby's sparse accompaniment of piano and acoustic guitar providing the perfect backdrop for his haunting vocals.

Throughout the album, Morby explores themes of peace, family, romantic love, and the rot that seeps into even the safest of realms. He sings about being reduced to nothing, yet longs to be free and beautiful. This duality is reflected in the singing saw itself - an instrument that creates ethereal sounds but is also a tool with its own fearsome power.

In 'Singing Saw', Morby has created a record that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. It is a reflection of his own experiences, yet also speaks to our shared human struggles and desires. The album is a testament to Morby's growth as a songwriter and his ability to craft songs that are both beautiful and haunting.

Kevin morby mass moca