Elizabeth Wills - Fly

Genre rock Publisher Apogee Records External Links Elizabeth Wills MySpace Apogee Records

Elizabeth Wills is rather new to the mainstream scene but has been performing most of her life. This singer/songwriter/guitarist from Austin learned about the importance of music at an early age. Influenced by Joni Mitchell, Nanci Griffith, and Emmylou Harris, Wills was always encouraged to explore creativity through composition. Performing began with opportunities in coffeehouses and bars and she quickly gained status as a professional. When the opportunity to open for Dwight Yoakam came knocking, Elizabeth jumped. Since then she hasn't looked back and her music reflects that.

Her latest work, Fly, is a labor of love and delivers a powerful message. "(It's) about spreading your wings, and coming into your own and reaching a higher place. It's about letting go of fear and expectations, and just allowing yourself to catch the jet stream…and fly." The title track explores the emotions of a breakup. It is a bittersweet observation of go ahead and go, just know you'll miss me eventually. The music itself is a combination of folk and romance. Easily compared to Sarah McLachlan, Wills could have been added to the lineup at Lilith Fair back in the day.

Another great song on this album is "Something Sweet". It romanticizes the emotional rush of a new relationship, the feeling that anything can happen. Her voice is soothing and lingering. In the track "One of Those Days" the melody is reminiscent of John Mayer and his album, Continuum. Even though Elizabeth can be compared to other artist it's her lyrics that set her apart. She combines a catchy pop background to words so truthful in matter.

Elizabeth Wills is a great listen when you are alone and need to unwind. She sings gracefully about love, romance, and being thankful for what you've been given. Most artists these days sing of misery and despair and it's nice to see the polar opposite of that. Finally, someone who sees the world as the glass half full.