Voir Dire Journal

Voir Dire was released in October 2023, at a time when I was filled with turmoil and uncertainty as my life was undergoing significant changes. Like many of my favorite albums, I liked it as soon as I heard it, but the impact it has had on me continues to grow with time. All of these songs are focused, well put together, and carry weight to them. The instrumentals are simple and elegant, and they let Earl's honesty and wisdom shine. More than anything, this is an album that embodies humanity. This is referenced in the audio clip that plays over the transition into the final song on the album, which goes:

"Well, I always feel that even though one is an artist, That we are first human beings and we live in the same world as any other person, So that we as artists should never close our eyes to what is happening around us, And the songs that I sing are just about my everyday life, And, uh, the things I say are those things that have affected my life...
The message I'm trying to give to my audience is not one, I'm just trying to make them understand me as a person."

I feel uplifted when I listen to this album. It reminds me to keep moving, to be grateful for the blessings I enjoy, to appreciate those around me, to open my heart to the world, and to live. I think it is important to maintain a sense of wonder and curiosity about life. I think when things become routine or they feel monotonous, you can start to lose joy. I am a firm believer that everything has a silver lining, that everything happens for a reason, and that there is always beauty in the world no matter what happens. This is not a mindset, however, that comes naturally to me. I find it easy to uplift and encourage others, but I tend to be pessimistic when I look at my own life. Or I used to.

Since this album came out, I have been working to lift my own head up when I feel discouraged. Each time I listen, I am reinvigorated and encouraged to grab life with both hands and not let go. I cannot recommend Voir Dire enough. It is packed to the brim with wonderful wordplay and inspiration, and the sparkling production blends together effortlessly. The collaborative passion poured into this project is palpable, and it is a joy to experience. Let it in and let it grow with you.