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ALBUM REVIEW - HIRIE, PHASES

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The title of Hirie, also known as Trish Jetton, is fitting for her new album, Phases, as it reflects her current stage in life. She has not only embraced a new chapter in her music but has also celebrated three years of sobriety, moved back to her hometown in Hawaii, and recently welcomed her second child. After more than a decade in the music industry, Hirie shares this pivotal moment through her strongest collection of songs to date. The album introduces a fresh vibe and energy, offering a delightful journey that marks a wonderful evolution for Trish both as a musician and as a person.

The journey begins with “Elevation,” the ideal opening track for the album. This song symbolizes a journey of self-empowerment, spiritual connection, and artistic liberation. It speaks to reaching a higher plane of consciousness and embracing authenticity following a significant personal transformation. Hirie’s beautiful vocals glide over a sweet, rootsy reggae groove. With a positive and upbeat rhythm, she embodies an energetic mood and encourages listeners to connect with and share this feeling in “I Am Your Vibe.” This uplifting song promotes authenticity, unity, and a shared sense of freedom, featuring a fantastic riddim, impressive horns, and an awesome guitar solo.

One of the album's standout tracks is “All Is OK,” featuring The Movement. This song embraces both the highs and lows of life, offering a soulful, steady, roots-inspired rhythm that gets you grooving. The strong lyrics focus on perspective and resilience, while Josh Swain and Hirie shine together, complementing each other perfectly.

“Hold On Me” brings an old-school reggae vibe that makes you want to get up, dance, and groove. Hirie sounds fantastic as she varies her cadence and vocals, and the band elevates the song to another level towards the end.

With a sweet reggae rhythm flowing through the air, Hirie delivers a sultry performance in “I’m High.” She sings, “This beat moves me. Capture my love inna reggae stylee, yeah, ahh, your touch, your love. Got me feelin', oh I'm high. I’m high.” Inna Vision joins the track to deliver a captivating verse that enhances the song further:
“See I only buy straight from the farmer. No government marijuana. But I do have a few exceptions. Open WeedMaps and I hit directions. See I only buy straight from the farmer. No government marijuana. But I do have a few exceptions. Open WeedMaps and I hit directions.”

In a playful and soulful track, “Messing Around,” Trish invokes feelings of nostalgia and a lingering desire that keeps the connection alive, all set to a great reggae rhythm. Cas Haley seamlessly blends his unique fusion of reggae, soul, blues, and country in this tune, perfectly complementing Hirie’s voice and style.

“Let Her Heart Know” is a heartfelt plea for vulnerability, urging a friend not to let fear stand in the way of her feelings for someone she loves. Hirie’s voice shines on this track as she encourages her friend to be honest about her emotions.

Karim Israel of Arise Roots joins Hirie in the captivating track “Youniverse,” delivering a powerful performance that complements Hirie's vision for the song. “Youniverse” explores the endless cycle of life—past, present, and future. Hirie described the song by saying, “‘Youniverse’ is an all-encompassing piece that marries the past, present, and future into one. Energy is never lost; your ancestry, your purpose, and the purpose of those who came before you encircle the universe indefinitely. Therefore, ‘Youniverse’ conveys a message to those who recognize they are here—not by chance, but by master design. Stay firm, rooted, and move forward, knowing that you were brought into the ‘Youniverse’ with intention.” Karim’s powerful message further supports Hirie’s vision, creating a transcendental energy stream that invites listeners to find their own meaning in the track.

In another track that showcases Hirie’s vocal range, “For Me and You” blends reggae, pop, and island-influenced sounds into a positive and soulful song. Mike Love joins Hirie in this sultry, horn-infused tune, with the horns adding energy as Hirie skillfully changes her tempo and vocal delivery. Mike Love complements her with his energetic flow in this fantastic duet.

Reflecting on her struggles with bipolar disorder and alcohol addiction, Hirie delivers a heartfelt song titled “Days Like These.” This uplifting beat and riddim hit nicely, and the message is sure to inspire and uplift many during difficult times.

In a heartfelt love letter to her daughter, Hirie expresses the profound, enduring, and unconditional love that brings both comfort and meaning in her song “Guiding Light.” This sweet, melodic tune showcases her affection for her daughter, who serves as a source of inspiration for her. Continuing the theme of family love, the song “Only One” features a reggae groove and is dedicated to her husband. Hirie described this track as “special,” emphasizing her love and appreciation for him.

The album concludes with a bonus track, “I’m High Dub,” featuring Tippy I-Grade, which introduces a chill dub vibe. This track beautifully wraps up the journey that Hirie invites us to experience with her.

Over the past decade, Hirie has taken us on a journey through her life, showing her growth as both a person and a music artist. Phases captures her evolution and provides a glimpse into her experiences, not only as an artist but as a human being as well. It features her most complete collection of songs to date, offering a rootsy reggae journey that fuses various genres and showcases beautiful lyrics. Hirie's voice has always been captivating, but she has elevated her vocal range and emotional expression to new heights. This album is sure to inspire, uplift, and entertain, allowing you to relax and enjoy it all at once.

One Love – Todd M. Judd

Todd Judd

Photojournalist - Pennsylvania

Website: www.facebook.com/IronLionImages Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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