Dewey Kincade - The Heights (2024) Hi-Res

Dewey Kincade is a singer-songwriter based in Louisville, Kentucky. He's played in several bands- most notably The Navigators. Other acts include: The Fellow Travelers, Freeloader, The Money Shots, Satori and Bourbon Fried Dixie.

Dewey Kincade has a new album of 14 songs that were written and honed over 18 years through a lot of life’s ins and outs: The Heights. Most of the songs were originally written, though, to cope with and process the aftermath of breakup. Written close to that pain, these songs are at the pulse of cathartic release, with anguish and acceptance and always, Dewey’s fabulous vocal sweep.

“Hallelujah Holiday” is a song of regret, set to just enough of a bounce that suggests a new day will be dawning: “she’s come a long way from a life of tragedy, me, I just got in the way.”

“I Can’t Hold On” is a heartland rock with a soul-searing opening line “You watched me plow through your chain of thorns / You cast me out; I wore your horns / You string me up like a marionette / And though I can forgive, I can’t forget / Hey, babe, you know that I am a shape-shifter/ Oh, babe, but you keep twisting me to be like you.”

“I Can’t Give You My Life” is a reflection on the gifts given in relationship that now seem rejected “I sent you flowers when you were reeling from the pain / I told my silly stories, I tried to make you smile again / I gave you my love … but I can’t give you my life.” “Madman on the Loose” is a bit of a twisted, perfect for your Halloween playlist.

“Sooner or Later” has the unfortunate observation that “sooner or later everyone’s gonna hurt you in the end. / Yeah, sooner or later everyone’s gonna hurt you in the end.” On this one, Dewey musters echoes of Lou Reed in his emphasis and vocals.

“Help is On Its Way” sings with maturity: “I’m racing from my memories of love. / I held the necklace in my hand / And tried so hard to understand / While the universe continued to expand. / Let me crawl inside my hole/ And try to build another soul.” “Long Long Time” is pretty mandolin and “I pray for rain but rain won’t come / I search for love but that race is run.” How often have we all felt this way? On this song, Dewey showcases his vocal versatility and range which is quite impressive, all while channeling a hint of Jim Croce in his vocal quality.

Dewey Kincade is a multifaceted musician, singer, and songwriter with a diverse vocal range who writes songs about heartache without stepping into the waters of over-sentimentality. Some are pretty without being saccharine and some tap into bitterness without being toxic. All around highly listenable and replayable.