S.G. Goodman’s latest album, Planting By The Signs, takes listeners on a poignant and introspective journey through themes of grief, healing, and personal growth. Drawing inspiration from a traditional Appalachian practice, where decisions are guided by the lunar cycle, the album offers a rich, reflective exploration of life’s most profound emotional experiences. Known for her intricate songwriting and soulful voice, Goodman’s latest work further cements her place as a rising talent in the Americana and folk music scenes.
A Personal Connection to the Lunar Cycle
The title Planting By The Signs refers to an age-old tradition in Appalachia where farmers and everyday people used the lunar cycle to time everything from planting crops to making important life decisions. This practice, rooted in the rhythms of nature, serves as a metaphor throughout the album, framing Goodman’s own journey of resilience. While many may associate the idea of “planting by the signs” with the physical world, Goodman infuses it with emotional and spiritual depth, exploring how cycles of loss, grief, and recovery mirror the waxing and waning of the moon.
Goodman herself has shared how the lunar practice resonated with her during a difficult period in her life, which led to the album’s creation. In many ways, the album is not just a personal reflection but a way of coping with life’s unpredictable and often painful transitions. For Goodman, the moon’s cycles serve as both a reminder of the passage of time and an invitation to heal—one step at a time.
Themes of Grief and Resilience
At the core of Planting By The Signs lies an exploration of loss. Whether it’s the passing of a loved one, the dissolution of relationships, or the shifting landscape of one’s identity, Goodman’s songwriting is raw and unflinching. However, what sets her apart is her ability to weave these somber themes into a broader narrative of hope and recovery.
In tracks like “The Darkest Hour” and “Wading Through the River”, Goodman taps into universal emotions of mourning and the struggle to find one’s way out of the dark. The songwriting is as much about confronting sorrow as it is about embracing the possibility of healing. With each note and lyric, Goodman navigates the complexities of grief, never shying away from the discomfort but also offering listeners the gentle reminder that there is light, even if faint, in the distance.
Poetic and Emotive Songwriting
Goodman’s ability to tell a story is one of the driving forces behind the album’s success. Her lyrics are deeply poetic, often leaving space for listeners to interpret and connect with the material in a personal way. She combines vivid imagery with raw emotional truths, creating a sense of intimacy that is both relatable and profound. Whether it’s the wistful nostalgia of “Out On The Rails” or the tender hopefulness in “Dawn’s Early Light”, Goodman’s writing paints pictures that stay with you long after the music fades.
Critics have consistently praised Goodman’s emotive delivery, which perfectly complements her songwriting. Her voice, a blend of fragile vulnerability and unwavering strength, carries the weight of the album’s themes with grace. In many ways, Planting By The Signs feels like a conversation with an old friend, one who has been through heartache and come out stronger on the other side, ready to share what they’ve learned.
A Rising Star in Americana and Folk Music
With Planting By The Signs, S.G. Goodman has solidified her status as a standout voice in the Americana and folk music scenes. Her ability to blend traditional sounds with contemporary themes makes her work accessible and timeless. Whether you’re a longtime fan of folk music or a newcomer to the genre, Goodman’s introspective lyrics and haunting melodies will resonate deeply.
Her place in the Americana scene has been steadily growing, with the album receiving critical acclaim from outlets like Rolling Stone and NPR, who have praised her unique voice and ability to craft songs that are both emotionally raw and sonically captivating. The album is expected to help her reach new audiences while further cementing her place as one of the most important voices in contemporary folk music.
Conclusion: The Healing Power of Music
S.G. Goodman’s Planting By The Signs is not just an album; it’s a testament to the transformative power of music in times of grief and healing. Through intricate songwriting, emotive delivery, and a deeply personal narrative, Goodman invites listeners to join her on a journey through sorrow and, ultimately, towards renewal. The album’s connection to the Appalachian lunar tradition serves as a powerful metaphor for navigating life’s darkest moments, reminding us all that healing—like the moon’s cycle—is possible, even in the most challenging of times.
As S.G. Goodman continues to rise in the Americana and folk music scenes, Planting By The Signs stands as a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit, beautifully captured in song.
