In the vast expanse of the music landscape, there are few artists who possess the innate ability to weave intricate narratives through bone-deep lyrics and haunting melodies. Corinne Sharlet, a Portland-based singer/songwriter, is one such luminary. Drawing comparisons to the likes of Lana Del Rey and Anais Mitchell, Sharlet has captivated audiences with her latest single, “Further on down the road,” a slow ballad that envelops listeners in a mesmerizing world of ethereal nostalgia.
Hailing from the high deserts of Central Oregon, Sharlet’s music is infused with the raw beauty of her upbringing. Her journey as a musician and songwriter has been shaped by a deep connection to her surroundings, and this natural kinship with her environment shines through in her compositions. With a voice that possesses a magnetic quality, she effortlessly channels her experiences and emotions, creating a sonic landscape that feels as expansive and captivating as the vistas of her homeland.
The lyrics of “Further on down the road” are a testament to Sharlet’s ability to evoke profound emotions. Opening with the introspective lines, “When you wander from your bed at night, restless in the glow, of all the bright-eyed smiles that could’ve been, buried deep in the snow,” she sets the stage for a contemplative journey through love and longing. The imagery of buried dreams juxtaposed against the cold, wintry landscape invites introspection and reflection on missed opportunities and the lingering echoes of what could have been.
As the song progresses, Sharlet’s vocals intertwine with delicate acoustic guitar strums, gently tugging at heartstrings. The addition of light drums and keys after the first verse brings a subtle richness to the arrangement, accentuating the introspective atmosphere of the song. It is in the final moments, however, that “Further on down the road” truly shines. The chorus of voices singing the refrain, “Further on down the road,” adds a touch of communal longing, as if beckoning the listener to join in on this poignant journey.
Throughout the track, Sharlet’s lyrics explore themes of time, love, and the cyclical nature of existence. Lines like “what is time for but wasting, draw a line through space, this spiral love we’re chasing, our time, time is a circle,” reveal her introspective approach to songwriting. These words hold significance as they poetically convey the essence of our human experience, urging us to reflect on the passage of time and the interconnectedness of our lives.
Beyond her musical pursuits, Corinne Sharlet is a psychotherapist trained in Voice Movement Therapy. This unique combination of roles enriches her artistic expression, as her understanding of the human psyche and the power of the voice seep into her compositions. The convergence of her therapeutic expertise and her passion for music allows her to craft songs that delve deep into the emotional terrain of the human condition, giving her work an added layer of authenticity and depth.
“Further on down the road” is a testament to the power of Corinne Sharlet’s music, and its ability to traverse the vast landscapes of emotion. With its delicate instrumentation and Sharlet’s evocative vocals, the single transports listeners into a world where heartache and hope intertwine. As the track gently fades, one cannot help but feel a sense of longing, a desire to continue the journey alongside Sharlet, to discover what lies “further on down the road.”
In this melancholic ballad, Corinne Sharlet has crafted a sonic experience that resonates long after the final notes fade away. Her ability to balance unusual chord progressions with bone-deep lyrics showcases her unique artistry. As the haunting melodies linger in the air, it becomes clear that Corinne Sharlet’s music is an invitation—a beckoning call to embrace the beauty and complexity of the human experience.
Follow this playlist, Discover Indie, where Corinne Sharlet’s “Further on down the road” is featured along with many other amazing musicians.