Mary Middlefield’s ‘Poetry (For The Scorned And Lonely)’ Is A Masterpiece
A Masterclass in Emotive Songwriting
Mary Middlefield has established herself as a formidable force in contemporary songwriting with her latest release, Poetry (For The Scorned And Lonely). This collection of tracks serves as a masterclass in balancing raw, visceral honesty with sophisticated musical arrangements. Middlefield possesses the rare ability to tap into an electrically charged emotive space, pulling the listener into her world with a blend of orchestral swells and intimate, lyrical storytelling.
While technically an EP, the depth and breadth of the eight tracks—including a poignant interlude—offer the weight and substance of a full-length album. It is a kaleidoscopic exploration of vulnerability, shifting seamlessly between moments of feral, rock-infused fury and delicate, ethereal vocal performances that showcase her impressive range.
The Power of Vulnerability
The album opens with the explosive ‘SEXLESS,’ a track that immediately sets the tone for the project. It is a swaggering, irreverent anthem that balances dark humor with sharp, dagger-like truths. Middlefield’s writing style here is exemplary, adhering to the ‘show, don’t tell’ rule of storytelling. By grounding her lyrics in specific, relatable imagery, she avoids the pitfalls of over-simplification that plague much of the modern music industry.
Musically, ‘SEXLESS’ is as intricate as it is lyrically biting. The guitar work features a gritty, distorted tone reminiscent of 90s alternative rock, yet it evolves into a complex orchestral arrangement that builds tension and release. This sophisticated approach to production is a hallmark of the entire project, ensuring that every note serves the emotional core of the song.
Navigating the Depths of Emotion
As the album progresses, Middlefield explores a wide spectrum of human experience. ‘ATLANTIS’ serves as a prime example of her ability to mask tragic themes within a dreamy, cosmic soundscape. While the track feels like a love song on the surface, it delves into the complexities of abuse and self-discovery, demonstrating a marriage of music and meaning that feels almost magical.
The interlude ‘ALLODYNIA’ provides a necessary moment of reflection, offering a dissonant yet soothing balm that bridges the gap between the album’s more intense movements. It is a testament to Middlefield’s artistry that she can convey such profound depth in a short instrumental piece, proving that she is a musician’s musician, capable of crafting narratives that resonate long after the final note fades.
A Vocal and Lyrical Triumph
Throughout the album, Middlefield’s voice remains the central anchor. Whether she is delivering the raw, grit-filled energy of ‘YOUNG AND DUMB’ or the subtle, sublime beauty of the acoustic version of ‘LAST LETTER,’ her vocal control is impeccable. She navigates the transition from chest to head voice with ease, imbuing every line with gravitas and sincerity.
The title track, ‘POETRY,’ serves as the perfect finale. It is perhaps her most candid moment, featuring guitar work that feels like a half-remembered dream—melancholic yet bouncing with a sense of catharsis. By the time the album concludes, the listener is left with a sense of having been on an exhaustive, beautiful journey. Mary Middlefield has created a work that is both heartbreaking and hopeful, solidifying her place as one of the most compelling songwriters of her generation.
