Kacey Musgraves Finds A ‘Deeper Well’

Ethan Sutton ‘27 / Emertainment Monthly Staff Writer

Country music icon Kacey Musgraves has shifted her focus from chasing chart success to embracing the essence of her new album, Deeper Well. In its title track, she reflects on her past struggles with drugs and acknowledges the need to move on, singing, “I’m getting rid of the habits that I feel are real good at wasting my time.” This reflection contrasts with her previous Grammy Award-winning album, Golden Hour, which she disclosed was partly inspired by LSD. 

Released in 2018, Golden Hour captivated listeners with its tender themes of love and empathy. Following her 2020 divorce from Ruston Kelly, Musgraves explored themes of heartbreak, independence, and womanhood in the complementary breakup album, Star-Crossed, shaped by her experiences with mushrooms. While Star-Crossed didn’t match the commercial success of Golden Hour, it showcased Musgraves’ continued artistic talent. With its nature-inspired folk vibes, Deeper Well maintains a dream-like tonal quality, but this time, Musgraves explores themes of fresh, authentic, and self-discovered love.

Beginning with a high note, “Cardinal” evokes a sense of both beauty and nostalgia, somewhat reminiscent of the timeless style of Fleetwood Mac. It is within the elegance of delicacy that Kacey Musgraves found inspiration. Following the loss of musician John Prine, she was repeatedly greeted by Prine’s favorite bird. This served as a source of comfort for Musgraves. The song becomes not only a tribute but a leeway into the emotional landscape of the album.

In “Dinner with Friends,” Kacey Musgraves shares her love for her home state of Texas but also voices her concerns about its contentious laws and regulations. Transitioning to “The Architect,” she asks listeners to consider the wonders of existence and the guiding forces behind life’s journey. Delving deeper, Musgraves contemplates the profound significance found in the simplicity of everyday objects and questions the origins of their design. This reflective exploration guides her listeners through a thought-provoking journey into the complexities of existence and the search for meaning.

Musgraves has just begun the European leg of her Deeper Well World Tour. She will be performing at the TD Garden on September 6, 2024.