Canvas

Via the help of IndieGoGo and her fans, pop singer Margot MacDonald was able to raise $15,000 in order to release her fourth studio album Canvas. At the young age of 22, the longtime guitarist and pianist has made a name for herself with a unique approach and inspired songwriting. As the current Washington Area Music Association Artist of the Year, MacDonald's Canvas will be buzz worthy enough that all indie-pop fans will want to check it out.

Since MacDonald started at the young age of 10 at the Washington National Opera, it should come as little surprise that her music mixes modern pop with classical-influenced vocals. Opener “Speed of Sound” provides listeners the initial opportunity to hear MacDonald’s interesting use of a looper. Think less Bruce Willis Sci-Fi film and more a pedal that allows musicians to repeat short snippets of their voice. “Straight Talk” seems transported from the mid-90’s and after listening, I couldn’t help but compare MacDonald’s vocal range to that of Cranberries lead singer Dolores O’Riordan.

Listeners get to hear her on the piano on both “Beautiful Strangers” and “Changing Times,” although the latter is a bit of a letdown with repetitive background vocals. MacDonald quickly redeems herself on the second-half of the album with tracks like “Bubble Wrapped Heart” featuring a catchy electric guitar riff and “Someday/Monday” with a whistle-inducing groovy atmosphere. I implore all readers to check out Canvas especially if you’re indie pop fans or have a fondness for ‘90’s female pop singers. Highly Recommended.