Armenian singer-songwriter Laura Zarougian has released a compelling double single titled "Double-Sided/New Used Car." This latest work showcases her unique blend of country, Western, and East Village folk influences, while also reflecting on her Armenian heritage. The two tracks reveal Zarougian's narrative abilities and her journey of self-exploration.
"New Used Car" encapsulates a carefree essence reminiscent of Bob Dylan’s early works, blending a playful demeanor with introspective lyrics. In contrast, "Double-Sided" features lush pedal steel arrangements that create a poignant atmosphere of solitude. Zarougian articulates the complex relationship between her Brooklyn experience and her heritage as the daughter of Armenian immigrants.
She elaborates on her songwriting process, noting that "Double-Sided" emerged from her reflections on navigating cultural identities after relocating to Brooklyn. "Although the themes in this release are more rooted in the American landscape, I feel like this song faces my conflicting identities...there is always a Side A and a Side B," Zarougian notes.
In addition to her music, Zarougian and her husband, drummer Mike, run a vintage vinyl and cowgirl boot shop upstate, fueling her passion for collecting records. As she looks ahead, Zarougian aims to integrate Armenian instruments such as the oud and zurna into her music, intertwining her American and Armenian influences. For a deeper dive into her work, listeners can explore her tracks on SoundCloud and follow her on her official website.
This double single represents a significant step in Zarougian's artistic journey, as she continues to weave together her diverse influences into a cohesive sound.