We’re living in a time when people seem increasingly willing to accept bigotry and even fascist ideas. Songsmith Crys Matthews’ latest LP has a calm and measured tone, but it is clear and firm in its language of opposition to hatred against LGBTQ people, excoriation of religious hypocrisy and willingness to get in the face of people who try to use small-town pride as an excuse for bullying behavior. Matthews celebrates abundant joy as well, sharing a full and rich picture of her life. None of this diminishes the musicality of her work, and the messages are too important to be messed with.
