B-Side Guys

From Woolly Mammoth Sound’s recording booth emerges Britt Connors’ “Exhale,” a six-track testament to resilience and artistic versatility. Released on October 31, 2024, this 26-minute collection showcases an artist refusing to be boxed in by either genre conventions or personal challenges.

“No Saint” opens the EP with unexpected swagger, its disco beat and horn section creating an irresistible groove that immediately signals Connors’ willingness to push boundaries. The four-piece horn arrangement adds depth and sophistication to what could have been a straightforward pop track, elevating it into something more nuanced and compelling.

“Take Your Own Ride” shifts gears seamlessly, demonstrating Connors’ ability to navigate different musical territories without losing her distinct voice. The production here is particularly noteworthy, with keyboards and organ weaving through the arrangement to create a rich sonic tapestry.

“Hummingbird” showcases another facet of Connors’ musicality, its delicate arrangement matching its titular subject. The interplay between instruments creates a sense of perpetual motion that perfectly captures the essence of these tiny, remarkable creatures.

The EP’s emotional core emerges in “August Passes,” where Connors’ songwriting shines through stripped-back instrumentation. This more intimate approach allows her vocals to take center stage, revealing both power and vulnerability in equal measure.

“Tilting at Windmills” stands out for its innovative percussion, with Connors herself contributing watery textures that add an unexpected dimension to the track. It’s these kinds of creative choices that set the EP apart from more conventional releases.

The collection closes with its title track, “Exhale,” a swirling 3/4 time Americana number that feels both fresh and familiar. The combination of driving bass drum and cello creates a sound reminiscent of Jason Isbell or The Lone Bellow while maintaining Connors’ unique perspective. It’s a fitting conclusion to an EP that refuses to be easily categorized.

What sets “Exhale” apart is its fearless genre-hopping. From disco beats to Americana waltzes, Connors demonstrates not just versatility but mastery across different musical styles. The production throughout, captured at Waltham’s Woolly Mammoth Sound, maintains a consistent quality while allowing each song’s individual character to shine.

The EP’s abbreviated length works in its favor, offering a concentrated dose of Connors’ talents without overstaying its welcome. Each track feels essential, contributing to a larger narrative of artistic exploration and personal triumph.

For longtime fans of Connors’ three previous full-length albums, “Exhale” represents both continuation and evolution. For newcomers, it serves as a perfect introduction to her wide-ranging abilities as both songwriter and performer.

The meticulous attention to arrangement throughout the EP is particularly impressive. Whether it’s the four-piece horn section adding punch to select tracks or the subtle keyboard work enriching others, every musical choice feels purposeful and considered.

As its title suggests, “Exhale” feels like a release – not just of these six songs into the world, but of creative pressure and personal expectations. Born during a period of health challenges and uncertainty, these tracks carry an added weight of resilience that enhances rather than burdens the music.

For fans of genre-defying Americana and sophisticated pop arrangements, “Exhale” is essential listening. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most compelling music comes not from adhering to conventions, but from following your artistic instincts wherever they might lead.