A self-produced collection of the intricacies of urban life, “Every Dog” offers listeners a window into the artist’s soul and her artistic evolution. The album’s seven tracks serve as sonic portraits, each capturing a different facet of allie’s journey through self-discovery. By taking on the role of songwriter, producer and mix engineer, allie’s sophomore release allows for an unfiltered expression of her experiences and emotions.
“Tiny Colored Pills,” sets the tone for the album with its upbeat rhythm and introspective lyrics. It’s a perfect example of allie’s ability to tackle complex themes while maintaining an optimistic outlook. The song, like much of the album, delves into the nuances of romantic relationships, offering listeners a relatable yet deeply personal perspective.
allie’s musical style draws inspiration from a diverse array of artists, including The National and Wilco. This influence is evident in the album’s sound, which blends elements of indie rock with a distinctive pop sensibility. The instrumentation is characterized by buoyant drums and gritty guitar riffs, creating a layered texture that enhances the emotional weight of the lyrics.
Collaborating with bandmates Alex Harwood (guitar), Maxwell Zikakis (bass/synth), and Patrick Freeman (drums), allie has crafted a sound that is both cohesive and dynamic. The recording process, which took place in Brooklyn, allowed for a collaborative effort that adds depth and richness to the album’s overall sound.
“Every Dog” is a profound exploration of identity, love, and the human experience. The album delves deep into the nuances of relationships, examining both the joys and challenges that come with navigating love and self-acceptance in a heteronormative world.
allie’s lyrics often juxtapose feelings of loneliness with an intense desire for human connection, reflecting her personal experiences in urban settings like New York City. This dichotomy resonates strongly in today’s world, where digital connectivity often masks real-world isolation.
The album’s title track, “Every Dog,” encapsulates these themes, serving as a metaphor for the shared struggles of allie and her friends as they navigate the demands of life in a bustling metropolis. It’s a song that speaks to the universal experience of finding one’s place in the world while grappling with personal identity.
The backdrop of New York City plays a crucial role in shaping the narrative of “Every Dog.” allie’s move from suburban environments in Michigan and Tennessee to the vibrant chaos of NYC has been transformative, influencing not only her songwriting but also her interactions with her surroundings and the people within them.
This urban influence is palpable throughout the album, from the gritty guitar tones to the lyrics that paint vivid pictures of city life. It’s a reminder of how our environments shape our experiences and, by extension, our art.
“Every Dog” is a bold statement of identity, a celebration of love in all its forms, and a testament to the power of music to connect, heal, and inspire. In a world that often feels fragmented and isolating, allie’s music serves as a reminder of our shared humanity and the beauty that can emerge from our most personal struggles.