We continue the rollout of The Lively Air, the forthcoming album by vocalist and composer Aubrey Johnson, with the release of its second single, “The Words I Cannot Say.” Arriving ahead of the album’s March 20, 2026 release, the track reveals a more intimate, confessional side of Johnson’s songwriting – a striking contrast to the buoyant optimism of the lead single, “Hope.”

Moving into deeply personal territory, “The Words I Cannot Say” unfolds as a soul-bearing sojourn of emotional discovery, from wrath to rueful acceptance. Johnson composed the piece during a residency at MacDowell, and the arrangement makes striking use of her six-piece ensemble. Tomoko Omura’s violin seeming to coax and anticipate the journey toward resolution, while Alex LoRe’s bass clarinet evokes dark undercurrents of regret and dismay.

Aubrey Johnson, voice
Tomoko Omura, violin
Alex LoRe, bass clarinet
Chris McCarthy, piano
Matt Aronoff, bass
Jay Sawyer, drums

Where “Hope” opened the record with a delicate yet acrobatic ode to resilience, “The Words I Cannot Say” invites listeners inward, offering a moment of reflection that deepens the emotional arc of the album.

The Lively Air arrives March 20, 2026 via Greenleaf Music. Stream “The Words I Cannot Say” and pre-order here.

More from The Lively Air:
• Album Trailer
• Album announcement & Single #1 “Hope”
• “Hope” Music Video