Mitchell MacDonald’s new single, “Home to You”, is like a light you forgot to turn off and left on in the window. It’s grown deep in the earth of Nova Scotia, and it’s been formed by years of classic country nostalgia. This is no aimless romp, however. It’s a ballad, for the lonely. A declaration for those who spend sleepless nights apart from their loved ones, and cannot wait to feel their warmth. The acoustic melody, like a gentle heartbeat, coupled with the earnest sincerity in Mitchell’s voice, illustrate a portrait of sacrifice, distance, and love. It’s a tribute to the quiet heroes. Real people, like truckers and working parents, who sacrifice their time for their family’s security.
The words are meaningful. They’re not overwrought or hyper-produced. The music conjures images of country singers Mitchell listened to on his parents’ record player, imagining a life he could one day live. They’re simple, poignant lyrics about missing home, missing your kids, missing your wife, the tranquility of life in your parents’ home. This guy’s been there. There’s truth in his voice. And that’s why this song works. It’s real and authentic. There’s no pretense. Listen for the Garth Brooks and Randy Travis influence on how the song’s melody unfurls, and you can hear that Zach Bryan-esque rawness in the vulnerability that drips from the track. It’s country music that honors tradition, but never feels stale.
“Home to You” never has to scream to be heard. It’s easy on the ears, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy to forget. The clean production, alongside Mitchell’s tranquil, sonorous voice, and you’re washed over. By the time the music is done playing, you’re not finished. You’re thinking and remembering. Remembering someone you’ve missed and a quiet evening that was too beautiful to share with the world. If you’ve ever lost count of the hours you spent watching a clock until you were reunited with your significant other, this is the song for you.
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