Southern Alberta singer-songwriters Veronica Raine and Christie J. Simmons have brought their unique talents together for ‘Pauline’, an arresting folk-meets-pop single that navigates the fragile codependence between freedom and familiarity. They do this through the central character of Pauline, who we follow from the age of eighteen to forty, and who by small steps ends up with a life she no longer recognises.
There’s a powerful image at the heart of ‘Pauline’: of a bird in a cage with the door wide open, and yet that small creature chooses to stay in the claustrophobic safety of the bars, rather than taking a chance at freedom. This symbol raises the question as to how many of us have chosen temporary comfort and self-preservation over taking a chance. Of course, it’s human nature to protect oneself but together, Raine and Simmons wonder if this form of protection is actually harmful.
Produced by Mark Troyer, this track has a real earthy quality reminiscent of late ’90s and early ’00s folk-pop songwriters like LeAnn Rimes, KT Tunstall and Tamara Walker. The breezy strings and subtle percussion also bring a subtle country influence that brings to mind the open spaces and rural communities of the duo’s Canadian province. It’s a relatively minimalist backdrop that draws all our focus to Raine and Simmons‘ charming vocals.
Raine‘s slightly more youthful tone embodies the wide-eyed naivety of a rebellious teen who “has no clue what she could lose”, while Simmons‘ more mature voice reflects the older Pauline who “never thought she’d build a nest right here.” When their voices come together, the harmonies are simply divine, reminding the listener that both versions of this woman still exist in one body, one life. They paint a devastating picture, but it’s not an unfamiliar one.
If you’re as bewitched by ‘Pauline’ as we are, then be sure to check out Christie J. Simmons‘ music and our previous reviews for Veronica Raine‘s singles ‘August’ and ‘moonlight’.
You can also find ‘Pauline’ in our Shades of Pop playlist.
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