Beach Ballads, the latest album by Willie Stratton, is a captivating collection of songs that capture the essence of summertime. The Nova Scotia-based singer-songwriter has crafted a record that is both nostalgic and fresh, blending elements of folk, rock, and country to create a sound that is uniquely his own.
The album opens with the upbeat track "The Way She Walks," which sets the tone for the rest of the record. Stratton's warm, gravelly voice is perfectly suited to the laid-back, beachy vibe of the album, and his lyrics are filled with imagery of sand, surf, and summer love.
Other standout tracks include "Lighthouse Blues," a bluesy number that showcases Stratton's guitar skills, and "Back to the Beach," a wistful ballad that will have listeners longing for lazy days in the sun.
Throughout the album, Stratton's songwriting is top-notch, and his melodies are catchy and memorable. The production is clean and polished, but still manages to maintain a raw, organic feel that perfectly suits the album's subject matter.