Austin-based singer-songwriter Alison Tucker makes a compelling debut with her EP Where You Used to Be, released on June 6, 2025. This collection of eight tracks offers a deeply personal exploration of life’s transitions, blending elements of folk, country, and blues. Tucker’s emotive vocals and introspective songwriting invite listeners into her journey of self-discovery and resilience.
Track by Track Review
New Lover
The EP opens with “New Lover,” a track that exudes a sense of liberation and newfound freedom. Tucker’s vocals convey a mix of vulnerability and strength, reflecting the complexities of starting anew after emotional upheaval. The instrumentation, featuring electric guitar and subtle harmonies, complements the song’s theme of embracing change.
When You Close Your Eyes
This song delves into introspection, with Tucker’s soulful voice accompanied by smoldering electric guitar riffs. The bluesy rhythm and rich melodies create a haunting atmosphere, as she explores themes of longing and the lingering presence of past relationships.
Filling Up The Spaces
A more upbeat track, “Filling Up the Spaces” combines sprightly melodies with heartfelt lyrics. The song captures the process of healing and finding joy in new experiences, with folk-country storytelling that evokes images of campfire gatherings and communal singing.
More Time
“More Time” is a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the desire for more moments with loved ones. Tucker’s lyrics, such as “I saw my mother the other day, I noticed her hair was turning grey,” resonate with listeners facing similar life changes. The song’s loose rhythm and harmonious vocals underscore its emotional depth.
Three Quarter Time
This track offers a melancholic waltz, with piano and fiddle accompaniments enhancing its wistful mood. Tucker’s storytelling shines as she navigates themes of heartbreak and the struggle to move on, delivering lines like “I am haunted by a delinquent goodbye, and a million nights without you.”
Let Me Go
“Let Me Go” stands out with its soulful groove and impassioned plea for release from emotional constraints. The song’s electric guitar and harmonious backing vocals create a rich soundscape, supporting Tucker’s expressive delivery as she seeks closure and peace.
Long Sleeves
A mellow, folk-infused track, “Long Sleeves” delves into the facade of appearing fine while grappling with internal struggles. The acoustic guitar and mandolin provide a gentle backdrop to lyrics that reveal the dissonance between outward appearances and inner turmoil.
Carousel of Colors
Closing the EP, “Carousel of Colors” is a gentle lullaby that reflects on life’s cyclical nature. The waltz rhythm and soothing melodies evoke a sense of nostalgia and hope, as Tucker finds solace in the continuous ebb and flow of experiences.
Tucker’s vocal performance throughout the EP is marked by authenticity and emotional resonance. Her ability to convey complex feelings with subtlety and grace is complemented by the skilled instrumentation of her collaborators. The arrangements are thoughtfully crafted, allowing each song’s narrative to unfold naturally.
Where You Used to Be is a heartfelt and introspective debut that showcases Alison Tucker’s talent as a songwriter and performer. The EP’s exploration of personal growth, loss, and renewal resonates with authenticity, offering listeners a comforting and relatable musical experience.
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