EP Review: Sister C’s ‘Demo Sessions Vol. 2′

Sister C lets their personality shine through in their sophomore EP by blending a traditionally influenced sound with their signature sass.

Written by Laura Hostelley
EP Review: Sister C’s ‘Demo Sessions Vol. 2′
Photo courtesy PFA Media

Sibling trio Sister C, made up of Cirby, Carli, and Celbi Manchaca, let their personality shine through in their sophomore EP by blending a traditionally influenced sound with their signature sass, to create an edgy release of their Demo Sessions Vol. 2.  This next volume of songs shows growth from the sisters with more grit and tradition in a way that works in their favor. It’s country roots are far different from what is found on the radio today.

Demo Sessions Vol. 2 encompasses matters of the heart. Topics of heartbreak, desire and taking the next step are found through out the project. The modern-day young lady perspective found in the tracks is relatable with female listeners and provides an easy-listening record to see you through any love-struck situation. Some may compare the trio to the likes of the Pistol Annies, but their youthfulness combined with their light hearted melodies give them enough separation to make Sister C stand out among the crowd.

“Chainsmoker” serves as the leadoff track on the album. It is covered with traditional country elements including storytelling, vivid comparisons and naturally, a banjo. The fast paced tune also shows the sister’s obvious harmonizing talents that will be found through the remaining tracks. It is a great opening song.

Cover art courtesy PFA Media

Cover art courtesy PFA Media

The effort that follows, “Cinderella,” stands out on the album for the sole fact of its lesson of female empowerment. It warns not to be fooled by male suitors in a Prince Charming mask because underneath is a shallow drunk who isn’t worthy of your time. The sisters keep it very blunt in this tune and sound great doing so. I would love to hear “Cinderella” as a single down the road.

Western vibes surround “If I Were You,” a song of jealousy and yearning for an old flame. A whole range of pitches is found in this song and it will keep your foot tapping as you follow along with the narrative.

“Willie Nelson & My Dog” is a tongue-and-cheek response to a cheesy pick-up line. It goes along the lines of the Maddie & Tae hit “Girl in a Country Song,” but takes it a step further by not sparing any feelings and saying she’d rather go home alone to spend with her dog. My favorite track on the EP, it will give all girls who’ve been approached in a bar a laugh and say “same.”

“Drinkin’ Bout You” is a traditional heartbreak song.  It’s a song that has been sung before, but Sister C keeps it interesting enough with their harmonies that you won’t want to skip it. The conclusion track, “Take Me Home” will leave you feeling sunny and bright, ready to take a next step in your relationship. I like that they end the project on a cheery light-hearted note. It makes you remember the EP with a smile on your face.

Overall, I like the direction Sister C is heading and I think they have left themselves with room to grow in the country music scene, I am excited to see what comes next.