When ‘Dreamsicle’ was released earlier this year, I decided against reviewing for a couple of different reasons. Firstly my favourite songs on the album had already been released on the ‘Intermission EP’ which I had reviewed in 2024. Secondly I wasn’t initially sold on some of the other songs on the album after that first listen. 

However before I went to see Maren in November I started listening to the album properly and found myself falling in love with it, especially the last few songs. Another stand out for me was the title track ‘Dreamsicle’ a sweet ballad about appreciating what you have in life and not dreaming away the present. Even better was the fact that this was a solo write from Maren. Take away all the big producers, the songwriters and what was left was a huge talent with a vulnerable and endearing heart. 

Maren Morris has been criticised for many things in her short career: being over-confident is one, attention seeking is another, and most recently she’s been under attack for her outspoken views on country music’s failings. Her music has always fizzed with energy, attitude, self-confidence and heart.

A year ago she released the brave and powerful ballad ‘Better Than We Found It’ – a rallying call for everyone to do better, be better and not shy away from atrocities happening in America. Alongside her speech honouring black women in country music, she has shown herself to be a willing ally and someone unafraid and unapologetic in her views.

So then what to make of an album called ‘Humble Quest’, with cover art where she is half submerged in water, and a mood that is overall understated? Where is the blistering confidence of before? Where is ‘Better Than We Found It’ and her political voice? Has she been made to shut up and sing? Why the hell do women in county music have to be humble anyway? Continue reading “Album Review: Maren Morris – Humble Quest” →