No matter what path you choose, if music is your destiny, it will find you. This sentiment captures the essence of Lara Taubman’s story—an artist whose destiny in music was undeniable.
Lara Taubman, a singer-songwriter based in New York City, is set to release her third album, The Gospel of Getting Free, on June 21st. Taubman, who has transitioned from a career as a visual art critic, curator, and painter, to a passionate musician since 2015, reflects a significant personal journey through her music. Before committing to singing and songwriting, Taubman’s life was marked by a period of upheaval; her move from Montana to New York City in 2016 to pursue a career in music led to the release of her first album, Revelation, in 2020, which established her audience. The album Blind Spot, along with several singles released between 2022 and late 2023, showcase her exploration of growth and liberation from trauma and pain.
The Gospel of Getting Free stands out as an album of renewal and positivity. As Taubman herself notes, this album distinguishes itself through a sense of hope and mental well-being that emerged after her transformative experience with somatic therapy. The songs are imbued with an uplifting spirit, even when dealing with darker themes, as Taubman explains:
“The same ideas that drove me to write the songs for The Gospel of Getting Free also helped me come up with the songs for the first two albums. What distinguishes this album from the last two are two things. First, I feel more mentally healthy than I ever have. Last summer I began working with somatic therapy for trauma and it changed my life quickly. I immediately wanted more hope in the music as expressed in the songs ‘The Reason I Was Born’ and ‘Sing Your Song.’ Even the songs that are about dark matters like addiction (‘Sugar’) and heartbreak (‘The Odyssey,’) carry a sense of humor and an inner hope instead of despair.”
Let’s dig this album a little bit. Lara Taubman’s The Gospel of Getting Free opens with “Home At Last,” a folk/acoustic track that features simple production and Taubman’s soothing vocals. The song’s uplifting lyrics and storytelling set the tone for the album, offering a sense of comfort and belonging. Following this, “The Siren” presents a mysterious intro that transitions into Taubman’s smooth vocals, highlighting her lyrical expertise and ability to paint vivid imagery with words. This vibe continues with “So Not Me,” maintaining a consistent thematic and musical feel.
“The Reason I Was Born” shifts to a blues-influenced style, carrying a lively melody and a lighter theme compared to earlier tracks. The raw emotion and storytelling in this song make it perfect for a relaxing joyride, as you relax in the backseat with the window open, feeling the fresh wind on your face, much like “Sugar,” which also exudes positive vibes. “Assyrian King” then offers a calming atmosphere, with Taubman’s vocals creating a lullaby-like effect, making it a perfect addition to any chill playlist alongside “The Odyssey.” “Sing Your Song” introduces a rock element with a heavier melody and engaging chorus. The guitar solo in this track perfectly complements the genre, encouraging listeners to sing along and deeply feel the music. “Love Is The Rule” brings a nostalgic 70s soul vibe, showcasing Taubman’s ability to convey heartfelt and relatable stories through her lyrics.
The album closes with its title track, “The Gospel of Getting Free.” This last piece captures the album’s theme, telling a powerful story to convey a sense of liberation and emotional release. Taubman’s expertise in crafting compelling music is evident, surely leaving listeners with a lasting impression.
The Gospel of Getting Free shows Lara Taubman’s growth as an artist and her journey toward emotional freedom. Each song tells a unique story, full of emotion and strong melodies, reflecting her personal experiences and transformation. Taubman’s gift for turning deep feelings into relatable music shines throughout the album. As listeners explore the emotional highs and lows of her songs, they are invited to join her path to healing and hope. The Gospel of Getting Free not only cements her place in the music world but also connects with anyone looking for comfort and inspiration. This album is an art, a story of resilience, renewal, and the relentless search for happiness.
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About the Author
Al Sangga is a music curator and writer. An annoying guy! He’s been writing music blogs since 2011. Although he has a degree in Management, he decided not to go the usual office job route. Instead, he followed his heart and chose a different path that revolves around his love for music.