Texas Platters

Charlie Faye

"It's worth reminding you again of the scribblers of those melancholy tunes," croons Charlie Faye gently on "Conspiracy of the Sad Song," capturing slow heartbreak as it unravels across the Austin-based troubadour's third disc. Written and recorded as her five-year relationship with local linchpin Will Sexton dissolved, You Were Fine never wavers into pity or maudlin tropes, but instead presents the kaleidoscope of emotional refractions in the clear-eyed, defiant torch tradition of Aimee Mann and quiet power of Natalie Merchant. "Stone in the Road" opens upbeat even amid recognition of the impending disillusion. "Knocked Down" and "It's a Fighter" punch harder for Sexton's harmonies, while "How Long" trades pop for a soulful, fiddle-laced scorching, and "To the Altar" turns folk in the wrenching letting go of a lover for a safe marriage. The crushing "When It's Over" threatens to end the album misery-soaked, but the suave soul kick given reprised closer "What's So Special (Way Station Version)" balms with a perfect break-up bravado. There's no bitterness, just the gradual, inevitable burn-down of a flame, and grasp toward rebound. As Faye twangs in declaration, "Love's greatest fault, it gets all over everything."