Vance Joy: Nation of Two
review by Ashley Moody
In 2014, Vance Joy told us “Dream Your Life Away” with his debut album. Including his hit ukulele-lead single, “Riptide.” The 30 year old, Australian singer then went on a couple tours and took some much needed time off after finishing them. On February 23rd, 2018 he blessed us with his sophomore album Nation of Two.
In his own words, Vance describes the album as, “A self-contained couple who’s world begins and ends in any place they are together.” When I was first listening through the album, there was a sense of togetherness between two human beings who rely on each other to feel home. He also states that their love for each other gives them their bearings.
The first single from the album, “Lay It on Me” was released on July 12th, 2017. This song reminds me of one of his more recent singles “Fire and the Flood” with the support of a band and a horn section throughout the chorus. Songs like those remind me of a warm summer night, the one you love and the feeling of being truly alive in that moment.
“There’s nothing I won’t do to see you shine,” is a simple yet beautifully put lyric from the song “I’m With You” which is one of Joy’s favorite songs on the album. You can count on him to write perfect love songs to describe the way you feel about your significant other.
One of my personal favorites has to be “Alone With Me.” Sticking to the theme of the album, this guitar-led song is his way of telling his partner that they all they need is each other to feel safe and at home. “I saw you smile, I knew you had spirit. Oh won’t you let your colors run,” is his plea to his significant other open up and show him who they truly are. Swoon, right?!
I think we can all agree that Vance Joy has always been a great lyricist and a wonderful performer. With either his ukulele or guitar in hand, he bring us along telling an upbeat beautiful story between two human beings. “Nation of Two” is a stunning album that keeps us hopeful to find a love like the one throughout this record.