Full Review

Elyse Saunders, Free Review

Elyse Saunders is striving to bring the timeless sounds of pop-country to the snow-blown airwaves of Canada. The Ontario native fell in love with country music from a young age. Her music blossomed when she teamed up with producer/songwriter Cyril Rawson (Keith Urban, Gretchen Wilson). For close to a year, the two worked together before she recorded her debut self-titled album in Nashville, TN. Saunders has released multiple singles to Canadian radio to much success. Her powerhouse vocals and captivating stage presence was built while performing over 350 shows, including industry showcases like Canadian Country Music Week, Indie Week, and 2019’s Canadian Music Week with Nice Horse, Kira Isabella, and David James. Saunders’ songwriting trips to Nashville have allowed her to work with BC producers Dan Swinimer, Paul Shatto, and David Wills; Saunders is now releasing her third album titled Free.

Bottom Line: Free finds Saunders presenting her unique brand of pop-country through six songs. “Wine Down” was co-written by Saunders with Daryl Scott and Joey Green (“The Voice”) and represents the first single that was co-produced by David Wills (The Higgins, AJ Woodworth) and Paul Shatto (Robyn & Ryleigh, Jetty Road). “Wine Down” is an emotional ballad showcasing Saunders’ beautiful country voice that plays between authentic and pop. The entire album was produced by Shatto, Wills, and Dan Swinimer, and they captured Saunders’ passion for expanding country music beautifully. “Free” was the second single released from the album and blends electronic-pop elements, acoustic instruments, and Saunders’ enticing vocal style. “Sunshine State of Mind” is adorned with horns, organ, percussion, and rich guitars to support Saunders’ voluptuous vocals in this feel-good gem of a song co-written by Saunders and Tj Simpson. “Genes” is another feel-good selection with more of a pop sensibility. Saunders’ vocals are engaging and buzz in both traditional and pop-flavored hues. The song form offers many textures and characters in Saunders’ singing style. The bonus track, “California,” is a relaxed closing selection with Saunders showing off her sensual singing and wonderful glissandos. Overall, Free reveals Saunders is a soulful songwriter and passionate vocalist whose astounding talents are immediately evident throughout six inspired and inspiring songs. That’s the short of it!