Laura Brino returns with ‘Cactus Moon’. A powerful exploration of vulnerability, resilience, and maternal love

American singer-songwriter Laura Brino returns powerfully with her new album, Cactus Moon. Celebrated for her heartfelt and sincere songwriting, Brino’s latest release explores vulnerability and resilience. Her extensive experience in writing music for TV shows and films since the late ’90s is evident in this album, which demonstrates her signature pop sensibility and masterful storytelling.

Speaking about the album, Brino said, “This album captures my own personal journey over the last five years; beginning as inspired and thought-provoking, then taking a deep dive into some heavy subjects and experiences. It ends feeling very empowered. It’s wild to be able to see how spot on my own emotional rollercoaster is portrayed in this album.”

Cactus Moon features 13 tracks that capture life’s complexities, ranging from the joy of motherhood to the pain of loss. More than just a collection of songs, the album traces Brino’s personal growth as she confronts generational trauma.

A highlight of the album, Tether, blends indie-pop and folk-pop effortlessly, showcasing Brino’s versatility. Initially composed on an acoustic guitar, the track evolved in the studio with layered synths, drums, strings, and vocals, creating a lush, textured sound. It delves into the enduring bonds of relationships, mirroring Brino’s early relationship with her husband and the challenges they faced, such as anxiety and PTSD.

Brino’s songwriting process was uniquely influenced by her role as a mother. Finding it challenging to sit down with her instruments during the day, she turned to nighttime sessions using GarageBand on her iPhone. This method not only facilitated her creativity but also helped her manage anxiety, allowing her to channel her energy into music production. Remarkably, many of the album’s tracks were birthed during these sessions, capturing the essence of her experiences in real-time.

The album addresses a spectrum of deep and relatable themes, ranging from relationship abuse in Butterfly, anxiety in Five Alarm Fires, to the acceptance of one’s true self in Live out Loud. As Brino navigates her 40s, her music has transitioned from love and heartbreak to more profound themes that resonate with universal human experiences.

The title Cactus Moon symbolizes resilience and maternal love, inspired by Brino’s healing journey through reiki and guided meditation after a traumatic childbirth experience. The imagery of the cactus, which thrives in harsh conditions, parallels Brino’s own path towards recovery and healing, making Cactus Moon a beacon of hope and renewal.

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Written by FM For Music