Still immersed in the heartache and healing from a breakup that informed her Billboard 200-charting EP
Moral of the Story: Chapter 1 and its squeal,
Moral of the Story: Chapter 2,
Ashlyn is the full-length debut of California singer and songwriter
Ashlyn Willson, better known as
Ashe. While she had cited influences like
Carole King and
the Beach Boys early in her career,
Ashlyn was more informed by the likes of
Elton John,
Queen, and
ABBA, a detail evident in the bright melodies and refined harmonies of some of the album's dozen-plus tracks. (Her Hot 100 single "Moral of the Story" is re-included here). Given that
Ashe is an earthbound adult-alternative pop singer/songwriter at heart rather than an astral belter, only softer echoes of
Queen and
ABBA can be heard on tracks like "I'm Fine," the bubbly, strings-accompanied "Me Without You," and the warm tribute to her brother, "Ryne's Song." Helping brighten surfaces while evoking '70s pop on
Ashlyn was producer
Big Taste (aka
Leroy Clampitt), who also co-wrote most of the tracks. Among other contributors were
Tobias Jesso, Jr. (co-writer of "Kansas"),
Jenna Andrews ("Serial Monogamist"), and
Finneas, who joins her on the wistful duet "Til Forever Falls Apart." The album's personal material and considered, sweet spirit is all
Ashe, however, who offers a debut that seems both contemporary and out of time. ~ Marcy Donelson
