Album Review: Stef Chura, Midnight

Stef Chura's new album Midnight demonstrates the maturity of her emotional capacity; it's a refreshing breakthrough from the reservation and restraint of her 2017 debut album, Messes.

Chura is no longer confined, with her unchained vocal style jumping nearly her full range between each note. Her incessant lyrical inclination towards the second person highlights her ability to submit to her emotions - and to those who provoke them.

In 'Sincerely Yours,' the Detroit musician does just that, letting her emotions take the lead: "I've done so much better than this/But I'm waiting here at the end of this list/Oh, these demons, they do not resist." When the guitar finally breaks the haunting silence resting between her cries, it amplifies her angst, drags listeners into her darkness, and holds them captive all the way through to the end of the song.

There's a feeling of repetition in the middle of the album: saying the song-title four times over as a chorus should not be tiring with Chura's unpredictable melodies, but two songs in a row makes it a bit humdrum.

However, the bright duet between Chura and producer Will Toledo of Car Seat Headrest in 'Sweet Sweet Midnight', and the upbeat electric folk vibes of 'Love Song', are strikingly unique compared to the rest of the album, meaning it recovers well from its mundane middle.

With a healthy balance between her complex folksy vocals and commanding guitar skills, Chura and Toledo have pulled together a compelling sophomore effort.

6/10
Out now via Saddle Creek.