Reid Parsons' debut album, Back to Back, is a musical goldilocks, each track and lyric seeming to hit just right. The multi-faceted album -- which hit streaming services April 25th, 2025 -- delivers a tasteful tapestry of folk, soul, and chamber pop from the Vermont-based singer-songwriter.
Produced, arranged, and written entirely by Parsons (aside from the Bruce Springsteen "I'm On Fire" cover), Back to Back was tracked live to tape with no effects at Burlington's Tank Recording Studio with engineer Ben Collette (Trey Anastasio, Susan Tedeschi, Sharon Jones). The result is an inviting analog sound that's both deeply personal and widely resonating.
Opening with the title track, "Back to Back" celebrates the quiet intimacy of trust that one can rely on those they love. Parsons' smooth vocals lilt above bossa nova-inspired instrumentals as they describe laying "Back to back every evening" because it's the "Best way we can sleep." Instead of worrying that facing away from one another signals difficult times, laying back to back means that "I've got yours and you've got me."
"Lightbulb," written as a birthday gift for their partner, reassures that love is fulfilling enough even when times are tough. This concept is beautifully conveyed by the theme of the "Little lightbulb on the ceiling," something so unnoticeable in our everyday lives. Assuring their lover that fancier lighting is unnecessary, they sing "That's all we need / Just a little lightbulb on the ceiling." The instrumentals elevate this song from beautiful to transcendent, the lap steel guitar seeming to make the entire track float.
"Show Me You Love Me" branches out yet again, shedding the gentle twang much of the album uses in favor of blues and jazz influences. Trading scat and saxophone solos over a strong drum groove, Parsons demands to be shown love, in no uncertain terms. Their versatile voice immediately fits the genre, raising the bar for the track significantly. Though a well done yet simple lyrical concept, the strength of the instrumentals and vocals make this track stand out.
Another standout track, "Same Old Shit," mourns the loss of routine when someone isn't around anymore. The lyrics detail a variety of everyday occurrences, like stopping for cigarettes or eating dinner, that don't feel the same anymore. Despite the very first verse being about the fulfillment of routine, the rest of the song betrays that initial vote of confidence. The track ends with the line "Control is an illusion, anyway," a final acknowledgement that the routine wasn't enough to distract from a loved one's absence.
Based out of Burlington, Vermont, Parsons is no stranger to a life of music.
After beginning to learn piano at five-years-old and picking up saxophone and guitar over the next few years, it was no question that music was in Parsons' future. By studying classical music by day and Motown by night, their signature sound was born, a unique blend of classical composition and heartfelt groove.
Reid Parsons distinguished vocals and thoughtful instrumentals effortlessly draw the listener in, but the honesty and simplicity of Back To Back are the traits that keep them coming back for more.
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