Laura Zarougian, a singer-songwriter of Armenian-American descent is gaining attention for her distinct style of music known as “Armenian Cowgirl.” Zarougian’s music connects cultures and generations by drawing from both American folk traditions and her Armenian heritage. Taking cues from legendary American folk musicians such as Joni Mitchell, Joan Baez, and Tom Rush, her music combines the essence of Americana with understated hints of Middle Eastern inspirations. Having a foundation rooted in Armenian folk customs, she has consistently broadened her creative horizons, suggesting the possibility of incorporating traditional Armenian instruments like the oud and douduk in upcoming endeavors. Her first album, Nayri, received high praise as one of the top albums of 2023, solidifying her position in the Americana music genre.
Laura Zarougian released two new songs, “Double-Sided” and “New Used Car,” on September 13th, 2024, taking listeners on two unique musical journeys that are connected in some way. The two songs, created with her band Little Tree, symbolize a thrilling new phase in her artistic journey, following the achievements of her first album Nayri, which gained attention in 2023. “Double-Sided” is the more introspective and lyrically complex of the two singles, captivating listeners with its evocative storytelling and atmospheric arrangement.
“Double-Sided” starts after the clinking glasses and murmured conversations, setting the scene of a lively bar for the listener. This artistic twist, influenced by the Spanky and Our Gang-type beginning, promptly sets a vibrant atmosphere, welcoming us into the song’s realm of dark evenings, changing personas, and lasting uncertainties. Zarougian’s singing style is both eerie and down-to-earth, delving into duality and introspection, indicating a struggle between her Brooklyn “sidewalk cowgirl” persona and her Armenian immigrant heritage.
In terms of lyrics, “Double-Sided” is noteworthy for its unfiltered truthfulness. The song’s hook, “How hard is it to hide it? Tell me, who were you last night?” strikes a deeply emotional chord, addressing the dissonance between how we present ourselves and who we truly are. Zarougian’s lyrical style skillfully combines the individual and the broader aspects, giving the impression to the audience that they are observing a personal scene while also reflecting on their own challenges with identity. This dual nature is reflected not only in the lyrics, but also in the complex instrumentation, mixing American influences with delicate references to her Middle Eastern background.
“Double-Sided” has its musical roots in folk and Americana, showcasing her musical artistry, which brings a sorrowful and longing aspect to the song. Zarougian’s Armenian folk music influence can be heard in her vocal phrasing and melodic choices, despite the intricate instrumentation. The song’s intricate guitar work and dynamic percussion create a richly textured soundscape, one that’s both intimate and expansive. Every instrument feels carefully placed, contributing to the song’s reflective tone without overshadowing Zarougian’s poignant vocals.
The production quality on “Double-Sided” is equally impressive, striking a balance between clarity and depth. Recorded remotely by band members and later assembled at Moon Re Studios in Red Hook, NY, the song was mixed and mastered at Capricorn Studios in San Diego, CA, under the guidance of Kris Towne. This DIY approach allowed Zarougian and her collaborators the creative freedom to experiment, resulting in a polished, yet organic sound that perfectly complements the song’s thematic depth. The result is a track that feels simultaneously timeless and contemporary, a reflection of Zarougian’s ability to bridge musical and cultural landscapes.
On the flip side of this double release is “New Used Car,” an equally compelling track that takes a different musical direction. Where “Double-Sided” is introspective and moody, “New Used Car” is more upbeat and playful, offering a vibrant, freewheeling counterpoint. The song opens with an instantly memorable guitar riff that grabs the listener’s attention from the first note, setting the tone for a catchy, engaging track that’s hard to forget. Zarougian’s influences from artists like Bob Dylan and Tom Rush are more apparent here, as the song incorporates elements of country and Western folk, along with a strong storytelling focus.
Thematically, “New Used Car” deals with change and transition, a common theme in Zarougian’s work. The metaphor of a “new used car” cleverly reflects the idea of something familiar yet new, a concept that resonates with the song’s lyrics about moving forward while holding onto the past. This balance between old and new is something Zarougian navigates with skill, as both her Armenian heritage and her American experiences shape her identity and music. The track’s buoyant energy is infectious, driven by dynamic drum beats and a pulsing bassline that keep the momentum going from start to finish.
Musically, “New Used Car” excels in its balance between energy and restraint. While the song is upbeat, it never feels overly cluttered or chaotic; instead, each element of the arrangement works in harmony to create a cohesive, polished sound. The driving rhythms and infectious guitar work give the track a sense of urgency, while the thoughtful lyrics and Zarougian’s emotive delivery add depth and nuance. Her voice shines throughout the song, moving effortlessly between introspective verses and more exuberant choruses, showcasing both her range and control.
What truly stands out in “New Used Car” is its attention to detail, particularly in the instrumentation. The guitar work is both lively and intricate, weaving through the song with an effortless ease that belies its complexity. Meanwhile, the rhythm section — drums and bass — provide a solid foundation that propels the track forward, giving it an irresistible groove. Zarougian’s vocal performance, as in “Double-Sided,” is emotionally resonant, but here she displays a lighter, more carefree side, matching the song’s overall tone.
In terms of production, “New Used Car” benefits from the same meticulous attention to detail as “Double-Sided.” The mixing and mastering process ensures that every instrument shines without overpowering the others, resulting in a track that feels cohesive and polished. The song’s energy never feels forced or contrived, instead flowing naturally from its expertly crafted arrangement. It’s clear that the remote recording process allowed Zarougian and her band to take their time in perfecting each element of the track, and the final result is a testament to their creativity and dedication.
Together, “Double-Sided” and “New Used Car” offer a comprehensive look at Laura Zarougian’s artistic range and growth. These two tracks, though stylistically different, are unified by their thematic depth, emotional authenticity, and masterful musicianship. Zarougian’s ability to move between introspective ballads and upbeat anthems with equal ease speaks to her versatility as a songwriter and performer. This release not only builds on the promise of her debut album Nayri but also signals exciting new directions for her future work. With these singles, Zarougian continues to carve out her own niche in the Americana and folk landscapes, blending the old and new in ways that feel both fresh and timeless.
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