Commanding vocals, impressively developed songwriting, slick production make ‘How’ve You Been?’ a knockout debut
Lucille Klement, an alternative rock band from Johnson City, Tennessee, is fronted by singer, guitarist, and principal songwriter Maggie Woodall. In their debut album, How’ve You Been, Woodall, an Albertville, Alabama native and current student at East Tennessee State University, delivers an intriguing introduction to her talents as a gifted songwriter with booming vocals.
After her open mic night performance at The Hideaway in Johnson City, Maggie Woodall caught the attention of local record label Downspout Records, leading to the release of her debut single, “Summertime,” in August 2023.
Now, eleven months later, Woodall and her fully outfitted band, Lucille Klement—comprised of Kevin Portwine, Maggie Aldridge, Jakeb Hardin and Matthew Sykes—present their debut album, How’ve You Been. This album marks an exceptionally strong debut.
When young songwriters reveal their songs were penned in dorm rooms, the end product is frequently something overly sentimental, painfully saccharine, or sometimes hilariously self-pitying. However, none of these pitfalls apply to this record.
Woodall’s songwriting tackles themes you’d expect from someone in their twenties—difficult relationships, anxiety, partying—but with surprising maturity and directness.
How’ve You Been exhibits a clarity and self-awareness that feels like it could have been written by someone with a lot more life experience. Woodall avoids the usual clichés, instead offering a refreshing and honest take on the emotional landscape of youth.
The album’s rich instrumentation and cohesive sound showcase the band’s talent and potential. Overall, How’ve You Been is a compelling introduction to Lucille Klement, promising a bright future for Woodall and her bandmates.
Favorite tracks: I’ve Been Running, Abigail and Allister, I Thought
Follow Lucille Klement: Instagram | Spotify | Bandcamp | Apple Music
Follow Downspout Records: Website | Instagram
Tracklist:
1. How’ve You Been
2. I’ve Been Running
3. Cry
4. Abigail & Allistair
5. When I Watched The World End With You
6. Airport
7. These Are The Things
8. Torn Up and Confused
9. I Thought
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