On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment eBook magazine UK“, Vending Machines by Mariel Buckley is a hauntingly beautiful alt-folk anthem that weaves introspective storytelling with a captivating pedal steel hook, exploring self-doubt and resilience with raw, universal appeal.
Vending Machines
Mariel Buckley, the unapologetically authentic Canadian alt-folk artist, has returned with her latest single, “Vending Machines,” a track that cements her place as a fearless songwriter unafraid to delve into the raw edges of human emotion. Released as the opening chapter of a new sonic and personal journey, the song is a masterful blend of introspective lyricism and evocative instrumentation, showcasing Buckley’s signature melancholy wrapped in a fresh, dynamic sound.
“Vending Machines” is a soul-stirring exploration of self-doubt, uncertainty, and the restless search for direction. With vivid, cinematic storytelling, Buckley captures the cyclical nature of transition—those moments of feeling unmoored yet determined to forge ahead.
Her lyrics, both vulnerable and specific, resonate universally, inviting listeners into a world where questioning one’s path feels both heavy and hopeful. The song’s irresistible pedal steel hook sets the tone, while a steady backbeat and jangly acoustic guitar create a bright yet rustic charm. Buckley’s smooth, velvety vocals, infused with her trademark melancholic tone, weave through the arrangement, anchoring the track’s deep groove with emotional weight.
Mariel Buckley
Raised in the heart of Canada’s rodeo and country music scenes, Buckley has always been one to challenge boundaries—both in her life and her music. Her unique brand of angst-driven alt-folk has earned her a reputation as a standout in modern Americana, writing songs that speak to the underdog with wry humor and soft-hearted sincerity.
With “Vending Machines,” she continues to carve her own path, collaborating with Nashville-based alt-Americana producer Jarrad K (known for his work with Ruston Kelly, Lucie Silvas, and the Goo Goo Dolls) to craft a sound that feels both familiar and boldly new. The track’s darker instrumentation nods to her roots while embracing a grittier, more vulnerable edge.
Buckley’s past work, including her 2022 Polaris Music Prize-nominated album Everywhere I Used To Be and 2018’s Driving In The Dark, has garnered praise from major publications and airplay on SiriusXM, CKUA, CBC Radio, and college stations across North America. Her live performances have taken her across Canada, the U.S., and the EU/UK, with standout appearances at SXSW, Americanafest, The Philadelphia Folk Fest, and Folk Alliance International. Sharing stages with luminaries like Orville Peck, k.d. lang, and Frazey Ford, Buckley’s steady climb in the music world is a testament to her talent and tenacity.
More than just a single, “Vending Machines” is a statement of Buckley’s enduring commitment to authenticity and her place on the fringes of the music industry, exactly where she belongs. With its haunting beauty and unflinching honesty, the song is a powerful reminder of why Mariel Buckley is a songwriter built for the long haul, crafting music that resonates deeply with anyone who’s ever felt lost but kept moving forward.
Listen to “Vending Machines” now and step into Mariel Buckley’s vivid, soulful world.
Find more from Mariel Buckley now:
https://www.instagram.com/marielbuckley
https://www.facebook.com/marielbuckleymusic
https://twitter.com/mariel_buckley
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