Ally Cribb’s “Now” explores love, loss, and self-discovery. The Toronto-based singer-songwriter brings her life experiences to the forefront, crafting a five-track collection of intimate, universally relatable songs, each expanding on the raw emotion she introduced in her previous work, “Unbroken.”
The EP opens with “Now,” setting a reflective tone with its melancholy mood. Ally’s raw vocals sing, “Now I see what I was missing, as now I’m missing you, “against a tender guitar and piano backdrop. The soft percussion and delicate piano mirror the vulnerability of the lyrics.
In “Holding Out for You,” Ally’s soaring voice contrasts with the reflective instrumentals. With lines like, “Even now I’m free, you’re still a part of me,” the song captures the bittersweet nature of letting go. The rising instrumentals and subtle electronic touches add a modern twist.
A shift in tone comes with “Know Better,” characterized by radiant vocals and vibrant rhythms. Ally declares, “You don’t get to blame me with your false hopes, flattery, goodbye, you and me, OOO, now I know better,” with lively percussion and bright melodies highlighting her new-found wisdom.
The EP closes with “Not this time,” which blends vibrant guitar textures with enthusiastic percussion. Ally reflects on time and lines like, “We thought we had all summer, but summer slipped away. Now the leaves are turning, and we are both turning the page.”
To summarize, Ally’s new track sets a warm mood. Moreover, the dynamic arrangement provides a heartfelt end to the EP. “Now” showcases Ally’s refined sound and artistic growth, contrasting melancholic tones with an upbeat optimism of re-growth. The EP is an engaging dive into early adulthood, blending heartfelt lyrics with a rich sound with diverse textures and emotions. It definitely hits home for many people, with a genuine and relatable vibe for anyone navigating the ups and downs of growing up, making it the perfect soundtrack for early adulthood.
