Following the release of 2022’s Sadtown USA EP, Carol Ades has returned with “Free,” a bubbly pop song exploring the words she did not have when she was younger.
“I had to know I’m not alone to let it out, I had to let a little go to feel it now
And when the lonely and the tears come back around, I got my love, I got my friends, to hold it down“
Once again, teaming up with longtime friends and collaborators Lauren Aquilina and Marcus Andersson, Ades added her partner and fellow songwriter Madelene Eliasson of LonelyTwin to the team. The individual talents of these artists are undeniable, but when they unite in a shared space, their musical synergy is nothing short of phenomenal. This song flawlessly encapsulates the true essence of their collaborative efforts.
At the beginning of the second verse, Ades alludes to a situation involving Aquilina, and in response, she comes in with backing vocals, providing a reassuring and supportive presence for Ades. Together, they repeat the experience that Ades is discussing, offering a fresh perspective. As a fan of both Lauren and Carol, this was definitely my favorite part of the song.
“And now I’m sitting on the couch and Lauren’s holding my head
(Laying on the couch and I’m holding your head)
Now there’s before and there is after, that’s what she said
(There is before and there is after)”
One of the main themes in this song is telling yourself that everything is okay. A specific line is highlighted by a gang vocal, with Carol telling herself she is not crazy. When the chorus evens out and the production is stripped back, it enhances the idea and creates a sense of calmness for the listener and Carol herself.
“And I’m hearing me saying it after years of not saying it
I was drowning in waves of it, like all of the time
Kissing my sanity, like ‘Shut up, Caroline, you aren’t crazy
I recommend listening to this song while driving with the windows down, and check out “Free” and more by Carol Ades here:
daybreak 