Tim Fite’s Ain’t Ain’t Ain’t combines elements of folk, rock, and country into a 13-track album that tells the story of youth and growing up. It brings the listener on an emotional roller coaster as it highlights the highest and lowest points of adolescence.
In his latest CD, Fite incorporates both optimism and pessimism. Tracks like “Bunnies” and “Joyriding” celebrate life with their animated folk tunes. The simplicity of the lyrics, loud vocals, and psychedelic arrangement in “Bunnies” are irrefutable proof of its lush, joyful vibe. Similarly, “Joyriding” is undeniably carefree. Its clapping beat and echoing chorus accentuate the narrative it tells, which is about a group of people doing whatever they want.
Ain’t Ain’t Ain’t also gives us an insight to the other side of life. Songs such as “Girard,” “We Are All Teenagers” and “Talking To The Air” are dripping with pain and sorrow. “Girard” is full of obscenities and crude language that represent a teenager’s anger and frustration. “We Are All Teenagers” is slow, monotonous, and melancholy, with soft, whispering vocals. However, the most heartrending track is undoubtedly “Talking To The Air.” Its airy, ethereal guitar chords are eerie and unsettling. Its words convey a sense of utter hopelessness: “Tell me not to quit and I’ll tell you it’s too late.”
Furthermore, an album about childhood would not be complete without at least one nostalgic song. “My Brother Sings” is about yearning for simpler times. A young child can be heard speaking in the background, providing an emphasis on family life.
Growing up is full of its own ups and downs, something which Tim Fite’s Ain’t Ain’t Ain’t portrays quite well. Take a listen to enjoy a journey through youth.
In A Word: Reminiscent
