Brandi Carlile - Returning To Myself (Album Review)
Thursday, 30 October 2025
Written by Chris Connor
Photo: Collier Schorr
Brandi Carlile has been a star of Americana for more than two decades, but interest in her work in the UK has reached a new level after the release of ‘Who Believes in Angels?’, her hit collaboration album with Elton John. Not content with standing still, she returns here with a solo record that contains her trademark powerhouse vocals and distinctive take on country-rock.
The title track is intimate, built around her vocals and acoustic guitar, with a hauntingly introspective quality to it. A far cry from the more extravagant pop sounds of her work with Elton John, it’s about fighting loneliness with companionship and appreciating the beauty of togetherness.
Human really takes flight in its second half, showcasing her range as an artist, from introspective, quiet works to stadium rock.
A Woman Oversees is utterly gorgeous, with Carlile’s voice and background harmonies creating a soothing soundscape, while A War With Time pulls from upbeat country-pop, although its lyrics speak of fighting a losing war with father time.
Joni is a warm, compassionate ode to Joni Mitchell, its stylistic nods showing how she helped shape Carlile’s artistry, and the indie-folk standout You Without Me talks about Carlile’s children starting to grow up and live lives of their own. ‘Returning To Myself’ is another triumphant record from Carlile, not to mention one of her most personal to date. It’s a must listen for both longtime fans and newcomers to her work.
Brandi Carlile Upcoming Tour Dates are as follows:
Thu October 15 2026 - DUBLIN 3Arena
Sun October 18 2026 - MANCHESTER Co-op Live
Mon October 19 2026 - GLASGOW OVO Hydro
Wed October 21 2026 - LONDON O2 Arena
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