Armenian singer-songwriter Laura Zarougian has unveiled a compelling double single titled "Double-Sided/New Used Car." This latest release emphasizes her distinctive mixture of country, Western, and East Village folk influences, while drawing inspiration from her Armenian heritage. The two tracks, "New Used Car" and "Double-Sided," reflect Zarougian's narrative prowess and her ongoing journey of self-discovery.
"New Used Car" captures a carefree essence that echoes the spirit of Bob Dylan’s early works, blending playful elements with introspective lyrics. In contrast, "Double-Sided" showcases rich pedal steel arrangements that evoke a poignant feeling of solitude. Zarougian articulates the intricate relationship between her experiences in Brooklyn and her lineage as the daughter of Armenian immigrants.
In discussing her songwriting process, Zarougian noted that "Double-Sided" sprang from her reflections on navigating cultural identities after moving to Brooklyn. She explained, "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."
Besides her musical endeavors, Zarougian and her husband, drummer Mike, operate a vintage vinyl and cowgirl boot shop upstate, further igniting her passion for record collecting. Looking forward, Zarougian aims to incorporate Armenian instruments such as the oud and zurna into her craft, blending her American and Armenian influences.
For those interested in her work, Zarougian's tracks are available on SoundCloud, and more information can be found on her official website. This double single marks a noteworthy progression in Zarougian's artistic journey as she continues to intertwine diverse inspirations into a cohesive sound.