Zoe Stroupe explores the bittersweet territory of grief that encompasses gratitude in her folksy and poetic latest single, “Colorado Bruise,” released on May 25. Inspired by a Big Thief concert and a trip to Denver, the song traverses through acceptance and healing.
“Colorado Bruise” opens with soulful crooning harmonies setting off an echoing and expansive soundscape, soon joined by a gentle, breezy guitar strum. Stroupe’s husky voice weaves a captivating melody, her lyrics both candid and catchy.
The organic recording is almost intimate as it allows you to experience the subtle details like her lips touching and clicking out her words. The drums then drop and pace relaxingly for the incoming chorus. The guitar strums become vibrant and ripples throughout the musical field. They settle into a relaxed groove, as Stroupe unveils the aesthetic, poetic chorus, “I will always hold a tender spot for you/My favorite shade of blue/My Colorado bruise.”
Stroupe’s poetic lyricism paints vivid pictures. We see her “sheltering” someone precious while being “brittle” showcases the empathetic efforts she makes ignoring her own difficulties. Other lines that may catch your eyes and ears are “climbing up a tower of the Rocky Mountain winter.” The imagery is sensual, tender, vulnerable, adventurous and au naturelle, turning the song into poetry in the guise of music.
Zoe Stroupe is no stranger to the stage. Stay tuned for her upcoming performances at The Mercury Cafe in Denver and The Beehive in Salt Lake City. Till then, get your heart touched by “Colorado Bruise.”
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Review by Naomi Joan