Finding ‘Heaven Right Now’: Taylor-Rae’s New EP Is a Masterclass in Presence
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
In a genre often preoccupied with dusty roads and nostalgic rearview mirrors, Taylor-Rae’s new EP, Heaven Right Now, offers a refreshing and vital perspective: the paradise you’re searching for is right here, right now. This isn’t just a collection of songs; it’s an invitation to a deeper, more mindful way of living, wrapped in the warm, familiar embrace of modern country production.
From the first listen, it’s clear that this project is a significant leap for the Canadian-born, Nashville-based artist. Taylor-Rae has always possessed a remarkable clarity in her voice and a wisdom in her songwriting that belies her rising star status. But on Heaven Right Now, she sheds any lingering self-doubt, stepping fully into her power as a storyteller and a vocalist. This EP is the sound of an artist who has found her footing, not just in the music industry, but within herself.
The title track, co-written with and featuring country veteran Carolyn Dawn Johnson, serves as the EP’s foundational pillar. It’s a beautifully understated anthem for the overwhelmed. In a world that constantly demands more—more hustle, more followers, more achievements—Taylor-Rae and Johnson ask a radical question: what if we just stopped? The song isn’t about giving up on ambition; it’s about re-calibrating its source. The simple act of “tuning out the outside noise” and “building the life you want” is presented not as a luxury, but as a necessity. Johnson’s vocal contribution adds a layer of seasoned grace, a nod from an elder stateswoman to a promising new voice, creating a full-circle moment that feels both authentic and profoundly meaningful.
The EP’s strength lies in its emotional range, moving from the introspective and gentle to the more upbeat and confident. While the provided details mention fan favorites like “Drunk Plans” and “Bittersweet,” it’s the cohesive vision of this new project that truly stands out. The themes of vulnerability and fearless storytelling that have defined Taylor-Rae’s career so far are amplified here. Each track feels like a page torn from a personal journal, a raw and honest account of navigating life’s complexities with an open heart.
This release caps off a landmark year for Taylor-Rae, a period marked by well-deserved accolades like her first BCCMA Awards for Female Artist of the Year and Song of the Year for “If This Is Love.” These honors, along with her performances at major festivals and venues, aren’t just milestones; they are affirmations of her unique artistry. They prove that audiences are hungry for the kind of authenticity Taylor-Rae offers—a refreshing alternative to the often-formulaic narratives that dominate the airwaves.
Heaven Right Now is not just a successful follow-up; it’s a mission statement. Taylor-Rae is building a career not on trends, but on truth. With over 5 million streams and a growing list of accomplishments, her trajectory is undeniable. But this EP reminds us that the real victory isn’t in the numbers or the awards. It’s in the quiet, profound act of being present—a message Taylor-Rae delivers with a grace and confidence that suggests she’s living her own truth, one song at a time. This is more than music; it’s a soundtrack for the soul, urging us all to find our own slice of heaven, right here and now.