Renee Maskin - Is It Real

Known for her distinctive voice, literally and artistically, Renee Maskin is a staple of the thriving music scene in Asbury Park, NJ. Merging indie-folk with country and experimental influences, Maskin’s work is as grounded in traditional song craft as it is offbeat and distinct in its delivery. After decades of touring with bands, she has been releasing music under her own name since 2022. In early 2023, Maskin’s full-band collaborative effort Renee Maskin & The Mysterious Wilds reached number one on the NACC Folk adds chart. A solo effort later that year, Shimmer, was named one of 2023’s National Top Albums by The Aquarian that year, which also named her “Songwriter of the Year”.

Comparisons to Stevie Nicks, Gillian Welch, and Mazzy Star have been drawn to Renee Maskin’s distinctive vocals. Big Thief, Wilco, and Phosphorescent enthusiasts will find parallels of Americana sensibilities paired with atmospheric textures and a bright spotlight on lyrics.

Maskin has been in music for almost 25 years, with genres ranging wildly from somber folk ensembles to aggressive prog-rock units. Her unpretentious, deceptively intricate approach remains a constant in her singing, playing, and song craft. Previous to her solo endeavors, Maskin notably fronted Lowlight, co-writing four critically acclaimed albums and touring as support for The Pretenders in 2018.

Is It Real is a collection of songs about ghosts, monsters, and madness, figuratively and otherwise. It reflects back on a transformative world with metaphor. “Baby, don’t freak out now” and “All your friends turn into vampires” could be as easily applied to current events as to any horror film. Musically, Maskin takes risks with inventive production, mixing electronic instruments and studio magic with traditional folk and rock instincts.