by Keeley Braunstein-Black
Lana Winterhalt released her third full-length album, Recovering Theatre Kid, a 31-and-a-half-minute emotional rollercoaster of genuine vulnerability, on March 22. In the lead-up to the full album, parts of it were released as EPs: Act I & II.
She has structured the album like a musical theatre production with two acts, an opening and an intermission, and builds to the powerful closing song, “Please Don’t Let Me Go.” The opening, “Intro,” sounds reminiscent of backstage before the opening of a theatre production. The relaxing and mellow song “Intermission,” located halfway through the album, is something I would put on a mindful meditation playlist with its keys and humming. In the age of constant single releases, I found it refreshing to come across a thematic album that has been carefully planned and thought out.
“I just want you to like me; I just want you to love me,” Lana calls out during the first song, “Recovering Theatre Kid.” Isn’t that something we all long for at the end of the day?
My favourite song on the album is “Blockbuster.” Something about this song, filled with the harmonies of many Lanas crashing over each other in melodic waves and nostalgia, captures my attention and imagination.
“Bean” is an emotionally loaded song about pregnancy and all of the complicated emotions, hopes, and fears that come with it. It isn’t dressed up; it’s simple and lets the meaningful lyrics eloquently carry the song’s weight.
Recovering Theatre Kid is a masterful performance.