“Podge Lane’s ‘Common Country Misconceptions’ is a poignant exploration of the themes found in classic country music, as Lane challenges the notion of a ‘happily ever after’. Drawing from personal experiences, Lane reflects on the pressures we put on ourselves to always be happy, even after achieving our dreams. Through his earnest lyrics and heartfelt delivery, Lane reminds us that it’s okay to be human and experience the ups and downs of life, ultimately leaving the listener feeling inspired and empowered.
From the very opening intricate string arrangement on “Welcome To Paradise”, you feel like you’ve arrived into this project. Podge Lane has a way of tapping into core emotions, ones that are complex, not simply reducible to happy or sad. I find myself so trapped in a sense of deep nostalgia, a wistfulness that feels bittersweet as ever just from these opening strings alone. It’s a short and supple minute long opener, but one that’s razor sharp.
As “Paradise” rolls in, the chorus of “it’s just another day in paradise” just has you feeling all kinds of chirpy and grateful to the world around you. Other songs like “Common Sense” really showcase the full lyrical prowess of Podge Lane. There’s a way he’s able to tell stories that few artists can match, a kind of sincerity to his expression and a quirkiness to his storytelling that’s remarkably his own.
This is a folk record that feels true to itself, to the genre, and to the emotions its conveying. I’ve been drawn to his style for a while now, but Common Country Misconceptions really solidifies him as a folk artist I’m going to be hitting replay on for a while now.