Frances Ancheta, the Filipina-American singer-songwriter from the San Francisco Bay Area, pours her heart into her fourth full-length album, Saving Graces. This nine-track collection of indie folk, pop, and soft rock is a testament to her strength as a cancer survivor, mother, and artist navigating life’s storms. With a full backing band adding a full sonic tapestry and indie edge, Ancheta crafts a record that’s both deeply personal and universally relatable, perfectly embodying the raw authenticity that Indie Band Guru celebrates in independent music.
A Tapestry of Struggle and Hope
Saving Graces is a sonic diary born from the trials of the COVID-19 quarantine era, where Ancheta faced personal battles—cancer recovery, parenting a special needs child, the loss of her father, and a divorce. Yet, the album is far from somber; it’s a vibrant celebration of the “saving graces” that keep us grounded, with music itself as Ancheta’s ultimate lifeline. The album blends her signature mellow indie folk-pop with a sharper rock edge, driven by her expressive vocals, acoustic and electric guitars, and keyboards, alongside a talented ensemble including Toku Woo (Mr. Sushi) on lead guitar, Maia Wiitala (Mjoy) on bass, and Peter DeHaas on drums.
The opener, “In My Time of Need,” sets the tone with its bluesy guitar riffs and Ancheta’s warm, folksy vocals that carry a quiet strength. The track’s emotional depth and catchy melody draw you in, hinting at the resilience woven throughout the album. There is some beautiful guitar work here as well.
“This Haze,” a standout single, dives into darker territory with its 60s-esque neo-pop psychedelia. Moody jazz chords and an addictive harmony that captures inner uncertainty with raw honesty. Thought provoking to say the least. In contrast, “Self Love” radiates a palm-tree-swaying, soul-cleansing vibe, its bright acoustic strums and uplifting lyrics offering a moment of pure joy. This ability to write about a wide variety of emotions truly makes Frances Ancheta stand out.
Standout Songwriting and Craftsmanship
The effortless storytelling of Frances Ancheta shines across Saving Graces, with each song offering a glimpse into her journey. “The Place Where I Need to Be” is a heartfelt ode to finding peace amidst chaos, its gentle acoustic backbone and soaring vocals creating a sense of calm resolve. “No More Judgments,” with its punchy rhythm and introspective lyrics, feels like a defiant stand against self-doubt, bolstered by Mr Sushi’s electric guitar flourishes. The closing track, “When That Day Comes,” is a reflective ballad that leaves you with a sense of closure and hope. The voice of Frances Ancheta floating over delicate piano and subtle percussion welcoming us all into her life as a friend.
The interplay between Ancheta’s acoustic roots and the band’s rock-infused energy creates a dynamic sound that’s both nostalgic and fresh. Warm and expansive. Mjoy’s basslines and DeHaas’ percussion provide a solid foundation making every track feel alive and immersive and welcoming.
The pacing of Saving Graces is masterful, balancing introspective ballads with upbeat anthems to keep listeners engaged. Frances Ancheta’s voice, soft yet commanding, carries the weight of her stories, making you feel every word. This is music that invites you to sit with your own struggles and find solace in shared humanity, all while tapping your foot to its infectious grooves. Sit back and enjoy.
