The only indication of Paige Penney’s age is in the youthful lilt of her voice. Everything else about her suggests wisdom and experience beyond her years. There’s a richness to her storytelling that even some of the most seasoned songwriters can’t seem to nail down. This natural talent is immediately apparent on her debut EP, Watch Out For Your Step.
Drawing comparisons to Taylor Swift in her humble beginnings wouldn’t be too far off the mark. Thanks to the success of a crowdfunding campaign, Penney was able to record the EP at Dark Horse Recording in Nashville, Tennessee, the same studio where Swift recorded her debut album. Perhaps that songwriting magic has ingrained itself into the very walls of the building, because Penney channels a lot of that classic charm on these tracks.
That’s not at all to say that Penney doesn’t stand alone as her own artist. That charm makes her a warm and familiar listen at first, but Penney brings her own unique style to the table. Her words are mature and polished, and it’s apparent right away on the opening track, “Stop”. Penney showcases her disdain for somebody’s inability to slow down and appreciate life, layered over moody banjo and bass. It’s an insightful first glance into what Penney has to offer, and certainly succeeds in setting a precedent. This emotional depth is present on every track, from the vivid metaphors in “Natural Disaster” to the vulnerability shown on “Leave a Mark”.
A highlight of the album comes out of the title track, her collaboration with fellow Newfoundland trio The Once. Penney reminisces about the simplistic yet magical beginnings of a relationship and the eventual fizzling out that follows. The Once lend harmonies throughout the song, resulting in one of the richer songs on the record.
“Get Outta Here” is another standout, particularly in the emotional maturity it displays. It’s a feel-good track about rekindling an old flame. Penney urges the importance of forgiving past mistakes and admitting one’s own wrongdoings. It starts out hesitantly, but the chorus builds to cheerful, charming pleas of reconciliation. It’s the type of track that would fit nicely into the soundtrack of a feel-good romcom.
It’s easy to listen to this EP and claim that Penney will be the next Taylor Swift. Although it’s clear that she respects and is influenced by Swift, Penney has a flair to her writing and vocal style that’s unique to her. A shining career is definitely in the cards for Penney, but make no mistake – she’s going to claim it through her own merit.