Marie Ward Plays Strict Tempo: A Little Kiwi Gem That Swings
Alright, let’s talk about Marie Ward Plays Strict Tempo. If you’re into classic pop with a laid-back, easygoing vibe, this New Zealand album might just hit the spot. Released under Tala Records, it’s got that old-school charm mixed with Marie Ward’s smooth-as-butter voice. She takes some timeless tunes and gives them her own twist—nothing flashy, but oh-so-satisfying.
Now, I’ll be honest, when I first pressed play, I wasn’t expecting much. But then came “Embraceable You.” Oh man, this track sticks with you. It’s one of those songs where the melody feels like an old friend hugging you hello. Marie doesn’t overdo it; she lets the song breathe, keeping it simple yet heartfelt. There’s something comforting about how she sings—it’s like sipping coffee on a rainy morning. No rush, no fuss, just pure warmth.
Another standout for me was “Honeysuckle Rose.” This one’s got a bit more pep in its step compared to some of the slower numbers. The rhythm bounces along nicely, and Marie seems to have fun with it. Her delivery isn’t too polished or perfect—it’s kinda raw in a good way, like she’s having a laugh while singing. And honestly? That makes it memorable. You can tell she enjoys what she’s doing, and that energy rubs off on you as a listener.
The rest of the album follows suit with tracks like “My Blue Heaven” and “Sweet Sue,” which are solid listens if you’re into that whole retro sound. Nothing groundbreaking here, but sometimes you don’t need fireworks—you just want music that feels cozy and familiar.
Here’s the thing though: listening to this record made me realize how rare it is these days to find albums like this. In a world obsessed with streaming bangers and TikTok hits, Marie Ward Plays Strict Tempo feels like stepping back in time. Like borrowing your grandma’s vinyl collection and finding joy in simplicity. Weirdly enough, it reminded me of lazy Sundays at my uncle’s house, where he’d blast old records and we’d all zone out without even realizing it.
So yeah, give this little Kiwi gem a spin if you’re after something chill and nostalgic. Just don’t blame me if you end up humming “Embraceable You” for days!
