In the words of SHE Magazine, unconventional alt pop-rock rule-breaker Anne Stott “is a bewitching cross between Joni Mitchell and The Pretenders’ front woman Chrissie Hynde. Run, don’t walk” – and that’s a poignant assessment of the unique songwriter.
A woman who wears many hats — multi-instrumentalist, actress, singer, songwriter, and political activist — each of her interests serves to enrich the hard-hitting content of her music, as it (more often than not) becomes the platform on which she voices her opinion on social changes and observation.
And after a nine-year gap in album releases (Love Never Dies in 2015), her third full-length album, Watershed Synapse Experience, has greeted the world on September 13th, 2024. Though her past albums could be described as folk or indie pop, you’d be hard-pressed to categorize her newest work. Produced by her longtime collaborator Barb Morrison (Blondie, Rufus Wainwright), Stott’s latest release is a bold 10-song venture into the realm of 80s alt-pop and 90s grunge with hints of modern flair. After all, fitting the mold has never quite been part of Stott’s artistic plan.
The title – ‘Watershed Synapse Experience’ – refers to those rare, minute changes in our perceptions that somehow have a massive impact on how we see things. Stott herself has always been someone who is unafraid to challenge the status quo, a trait which fans the fire of her songwriting; flames which are evident in the lyrics of this new release.
If one were to look up the definition of a call to action song, “Water to Blood” would certainly fit the description. Released earlier this year, the standout track delivers a brutally honest perspective. Stott unapologetically calls out the evil she sees in our society today, urging listeners to wake up and make a choice. Summing up the message, she sings, “The change is ours to choose / Drown or row.” Paired with the juxtaposed beautiful and tragic images of nature in the lyric video, this is a track that just might leave listeners thinking about their own beliefs and viewpoints, especially in a crucial election year.
Kenny Mellman (Kiki and Herb, The Julie Ruin) shines in the poignant single, “Future Ruin”, released back in August. His stirring piano playing sets the stage for Stott’s introspective yet subtly heart-wrenching vocals, as she delivers a message from the “heartbreak merry-go-round.” This is a song about the life we build in our dreams, and how our choices today affect our future selves.
Heavy on the six-string, “Born Under A Full Moon” delivers elements of 90s grunge and angst. Channeling celestial energy, the lyrics of this track lament the role that fate plays in our lives — a role that often feels considerably negative. How much of our lives is under our control, and how much is up to chance?
“I Can’t Hide” has a raw yet surreal energy of its own. Stott boldly declares a powerful desire for truth and love, for the world to put aside its differences and embrace one another fully. The echoing chorus lends a haunting effect. For a vastly different vibe, you can hear the Audible Yays Remix here.
Though she claims to be from anywhere and nowhere, Stott has lived in New York enough to consider herself a New Yorker, splitting most of her time between NYC and Cape Cod. Her music career has taken her across the northeast and beyond, between busking in the streets and playing well-known clubs.
With versatility and passion at the center of her craft, Stott’s songs can easily switch between heartfelt and striking, just a part of what makes her art so appealing. The artist herself said it best: “Songs can transform our heartbreak and struggle into greater freedom and beauty.”
Featured photo: Kelly Davidson
