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bittersweet

"My long-awaited debut EP is out now! I wrote these songs throughout the spring/summer of 2021, and the theme of "bittersweet" kept appearing in my life. Whether it presented itself as a small, insignificant detail, or a life-changing event, I feel that bittersweet was the best way to describe these common occurrences. During this time, I was dealing with mental illness and the struggle of being an extrovert during COVID times. This gave me lots of time to think, (probably overthink), about my emotions. Being 14 and tackling large issues was not easy, and I feel like this record shows that it was a struggle. Although, if I could go back, I wouldn't change anything. After lots of work and dedication, I'm so excited for you all to hear bittersweet!"

-from, carly

track list

  1. sublime - 3:50

  2. vending machine love - 4:01

  3. r u ok? - 2:57

  4. monstera - 3:00

  5. ; - 2:52

  6. bittersweet - 1:04

album credits

All songs and lyrics, written and performed by Carly Penick

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Bittersweet (outro): All instrumental parts written by Cam Smith and Jol Seitz, lyrics/vocals by Carly Penick

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Musicians: Carly Penick, Cam Smith, Vimka Nochvay, Jol Seitz, Rachel Gulick

sublime- Carly (guitar, lead vocals, djembe)

vending machine Love- Carly (vocals, guitar), Cam (drums), Vimka (bass)

r u ok?- Carly (vocals, guitar)

monstera- Carly (vocals, guitar), Cam (drums), Vimka (bass)

semicolon- Carly (vocals, guitar)

bittersweet- Cam (guitar, bass, drums, backing vocals), Jol (piano, backing vocals), Carly (lead vocals +backing), Rachel (backing vocals)

Audio Technicians/Engineers: Vimka Nochvay, Jol Seitz, Cam Smith

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Co-Producers: Carly Penick and Rachel Gulick

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Label: GR!T Records

about carly rene

Carly Rene is a 16 year old singer-songwriter from Clive, Iowa. Performing since 2017, Carly has been charming audiences through her narrative lyrics and catchy melodies. She loves using songwriting and performance as an expressive outlet, and lets her outgoing and unique personality shine through her work. Carly and her friends Cam Smith and Vivien Shutters have recently formed the band Carly Rene and The Fools. Carly's vocals have been compared to Lindsey Jordan of Snail Mail, and she aspires to mirror lyricists Hozier and Phoebe Bridgers. Her optimistic spirit may contrast her emotionally complex original songs, but her art paints a cohesive, effective picture. 

Carly Rene + The Fools playing Monstera @ Ingersoll Live

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