The marigold flower represents creativity, passion, joy, prosperity and many more positive attributes. Alex Isley uses this flower as a muse to create a vibrant album with exquisite instrumentals and lyrics. Even though the theme of partnership takes up much of the album, some songs reflect on trusting the process of life and embracing the gifts presented. With only one feature, “Marigold” is an album that shines primarily because of Alex Isley and Jack Dine’s talent. A multitude of instruments are incorporated within this album such as the piano, the drums, the harp, and an array of guitars, but mainly the acoustic guitar.
Dine produced all of the songs on “Marigold”, which causes the album to follow a certain tone and flow. Isely’s voice contains a raspiness that blends well with the slow and smooth melodies implemented by Dine. The musical chemistry between Jack Dine and Alex Isley is undeniable with their ability to collaborate and create timeless songs. Isley and Dine don’t just create a simple beat or melody to attach to the lyrics but instead produce a story between the instrumentals and the lyrics to paint a bigger picture. Even in some songs, they allow the instruments to shine, which is greatly appreciated because most artists in the present time lack this level of musicality.
For example, one song in particular titled “Still Wonder” should be highlighted. In the beginning, the song floods your ears with a consistent drum beat and piano keys. As the lyrics dance with the melody within this song you’re able to feel the chemistry between Isley and Dine. Each time Isley projects her voice and begins the chorus, the instrumentals rise with her to create a crescendo. The storyline is beautiful and encased with honesty because it’s about a person she knows she wasn’t technically supposed to be with, but greatly enjoyed their presence. Lyrics such as “I know we were wrong// Nothing but wrong // Still wonder ‘bout you” give listeners a space to feel painful emotions subconsciously buried similar to therapy. This may explain why this is her third most streamed song on the album. Surprisingly the ending of “Still Wonder” is the height of it with the arrangement of instruments closing out the song.
“Marigold” begins with “Such a Thing” which details how Isley was surprised by what life has gifted her recently. This unexpected gift being her child gave Isley an epiphany, which is why she lyricised “Now I understand// Was all in the timing.” The relatability of “Such a Thing” may explain why Spotify listed it as Isley’s second most streamed song on “Marigold.” All of us have received unexpected gifts in life and can relate to Isley’s epiphany. As the song sets the tone for the rest of the album, the instrumental transitions to the smooth harp playing in the next song titled “Too Bad I Forget.”
This track alongside “Love Again”, and “Under the Moon” all fall under the theme of partnership, passion, and love. Each song speaks about a different phase in love whether it be desiring love once more or unexpected love. This part of “Marigold” is at its peak with seamless transitions, great storytelling and unique sound engineering. It appeals to all audiences because it embodies different forms of love that each listener can connect with. Some artists cannot produce such distinct love songs with most, if not all, their love songs falling under the category of “struggle love”. In these songs the woman is basically begging her counterpart for love or it romanticizes topics such as failure to communicate, cheating, lack of self-awareness, and losing yourself in your partner/relationship. Isley’s ability to create a broad range of love songs allows the listener to experience numerous forms of healthy emotions and puts her on another level of artistry.
Isley closes out the album with “105” to remind listeners including herself to trust God’s plan, change is needed to move forward, and to flow with life. This timeless piece of music is still being mentioned in the present time even though it was released in 2022. Those who appreciate alternative R&B, jazz, and true musicality will love this album. “Marigold” encompasses every single attribute of its muse and should be studied by all artists who want to produce true artistry.
