Album Review: Ali Barter – Hello, I'm Doing My Best

Hello, it’s Ali Barter and she’s here to tell you she’s doing her best. We’re back in the ‘90s for Barter’s second offering, driving with the windows down in Kat Stratford’s 1963 Dodge Dart, not giving a damn about our reputation, and screaming out the lyrics to Ur A Piece Of Shit. Next we’re in our big sister’s bedroom, “smoking cigarettes and eating ice cream” listening on as she tells us her History Of Boys. We sneak out past curfew to meet our crush at a party while Backseat plays. This Girl soundtracks our walk into the school formal. In the present, it’s made for 2am slow dancing in the living room. 

Hello, I’m Doing My Best is so much more than a ‘90s throwback though. January is singular. An all-too-familiar lambaste of self that speaks of broken promises and going nowhere. It’s relatable, intelligent songwriting that sees Barter at her best.  

Inviting you into her world, Barter has crafted something raw and uninhibited here. Something personal but personable. It’s music for the people.