Tag: EPReview

Phoebe Green Releases EP ‘I Can’t Cry For You’

Phoebe Green Releases EP ‘I Can’t Cry For You’

by Rebecca Llewellyn ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

2020 has seen Phoebe Green literally “Reinvent” herself. From a striking new single in July, to her current EP release. The Manchester based singer-songwriter has awoken a new persona, and she is certainly not one to be messed with. Possessing flame orange hair, and a dark witty humour, Green is flourishing. All while raining a glorious revenge down on whoever wronged her. As her latest EP ‘I Can’t Cry For You’ stands bold, beautiful and brilliant. Green is turning heads, and it is clear to hear why. 

Each track on the EP delivers an unwavering frank lyricism. Echoing a similar approach from her 2016 album ‘02:00am’, yet Green appears scorned on this latest release, and there is no denying the reflection of that within her music. ‘I Can’t Cry For You’ is a phenomenal depiction of a decaying relationship, captivating the listener throughout. On opening track Reinvent, Green adopts a dark and brooding vocal approach. Bittersweet as it meanders through a turbulent scenario, exploring the self-identity struggles that arise when this finally ends. Instruments are kept low and biting, adding to the moody ambience that builds throughout. We feel this intensity deepen further on Grit. With Green’s vocals descending to an almost delirious, hazy lull. The entire atmosphere becomes unnerving, conveying the deranged feelings that can often accompany a narcissistic relationship. 

Switching the tempo back up on Golden Girl, Green’s familiar light-hearted vocals return. An upbeat, but direct track. Golden Girl snipes at its subject, as though Green is directly addressing a disgruntled ex-lover. With a fierce femme approach, Green asserts herself beautifully. Standing out as an ‘I Can’t Cry For You’ anthem for getting over someone. Closing the EP is final track A World I Forgot, another hypnotic psychedelic indulgence from the indie musician. Matching the vibrant orange and green splatters that adorn the EP’s cover art. Green sways between hardened indie power-pop and swirling psychedelia, instantaneously. Highlighting the emotional and psychological challenges, that can be inflicted by a chaotic lifestyle and undeserving lovers. 

Whether it is through a satirical swirl of synth, or the clout of a full band. Green’s vocals shine, wherever she lends her voice. With an ever-growing confidence, ‘I Can’t Cry For You’ has seen Phoebe Green soar.

We wait with bated breath, to marvel at the heights a sophomore album will soon take her. 

Stream ‘I Can’t Cry For You’ on all platforms now via Chess Club Records

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Rosehip Teahouse Release Latest EP ‘Fine’

Rosehip Teahouse Release Latest EP ‘Fine’

by Rebecca Llewellyn ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Cradling tender emotion in the palm of their hands, is a skill that Cardiff indie-pop band Rosehip Teahouse have completely perfected. Boasting a back catalogue of gorgeously cathartic music. Latest EP ‘Fine’ merges old and new tracks, entwining memories, thoughts and feelings into just shy of a blissful 15 minutes. 

Swooning vocals from lead singer Faye Rogers glide ever so delicately across a soundscape of lightly placed instruments. Twinkling keyboards shimmer among a subtle pop of synths. While guitars nip, and drums dance, adding just enough grandeur to collate that “full band” sound. Rosehip Teahouse carefully ensure their blend of instruments is not overpowering, but instead provide a sound that is wholesome and pleasant to the palate.

It is a delight to rediscover gems such as ‘No Gloom’ and ‘Summer Sleep’ from very early demo recordings, alongside new singles ‘I Meant What I Said’,  ‘A Million Times’ and ‘I’m Not Whole’.  We hear a progression in songwriting style as Rosehip Teahouse have grown, yet cherish the emotions forever present within their music. Embodying such poignant pleasure, from their very conception as a band. 

Of Rosehip Teahouse’s latest EP, Faye expresses; “The fine EP is a collection of moments that span from 2016 to now. They cover love, losing love, fighting an eating disorder that wanted to take me over completely, my unregulated emotions, dreams (both literal and metaphorical) finding some sort of meaning amongst it all and coming out the other side, slightly stronger as a result of it. A lot of the songs are re-arrangements of the very earliest Rosehip demos and it’s been really cathartic and really special to let them free with the help of the rest of the band. I hope people can relate to the songs, give them a home for a bit and feel at least a little supported in the struggles we all have staying grounded in this overwhelming world.” 

‘Fine’ is without doubt, another firm favourite, more than capable of capturing hearts and bottling heartbreak. Exquisite in its fragile delivery of unwavering lyrics, Rosehip Teahouse share a true depiction of our innermost self-doubts and worries. Swathed within the most beautiful music. 

Stream ‘Fine’ on all platforms now via Big Indie Records

Follow Rosehip Teahouse on socials

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Matthew Barton Releases EP Queen of England

Matthew Barton Releases EP Queen of England

by Rebecca Llewellyn ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Combining cool, crisp vocals with a mellow soundscape. Welcome to the gloriously creative world of musician Matthew Barton. The release of EP Queen of England on a limited run of cassettes, affirms a spark of eccentricity, whilst a gorgeous vintage nostalgia flows through his music. 

With simple bass hooks and tender guitar strums. Music is chilled yet quirky, basking in subtle looped-rhythms and tantalising pops of synth. DIY percussion patters throughout, and we are instantly transported to hazy days in Laurel Canyon. Sat around a smoky campfire sunset, ready for this roaring retro-trip. Just visualise that washed out sepia grain in your favourite old photograph. It is clear to see that Barton creates music as though it is a cherished snapshot in time, reincarnated in 2020. 

Opening the EP with Cruising. Barton utilises varying vocal and guitar pitches, to create a mysterious ambience. Laced with lyrics of jealousy, longing and lust. The track introduces us to an ingenious aspect of musical experimentation, as Barton combines sinister high points with delirious ‘crooner’ vocal lows. As the tape flows through to second track Queen of England, we propel forward with a prominent percussion beat and an upbeat charm. Marrying oddly well with Barton’s jesting lyrics, that take a jab at the monarchy and state of the world. An impressive vocal range is once again displayed in majestic fashion, along with that undeniable flair for self-production. Showcasing numerous instruments played and recorded. Barton charges forward with a kaleidoscope of musical influence, ranging from the grunge of PJ Harvey to Spector 60s surf-pop.

Next track Lady Jane Days is a short interlude, at just over a minute long. It cools us down, and delves into the delectable laid back sound that dominates the overall style of this EP. Stripping the soundscape back to crunching guitars and subtle piano keys, Barton crafts a tender yet biting track, reminiscent of The Doors, as track Barb bursts with 60s Rock Revolution. So rooted is this gritty vocal delivery, Barton shines as a captivating muse, through rousing lyrics and a suave musical style. 

Signature ballad of the EP Alcatraz, has a lyrical slant towards memories and ‘the grass is always greener’ concept. It’s a white picket fence nightmare, cradling what we have in one hand, with what we desire in the other. Barton’s vocals are serenely soft and almost chilling, brooding over this thought-provoking tune. We feel the turn of the key, as he unlocks himself from those shackles of day-to-day constraint, spilling secrets and thoughts, in harmony with his detuned guitar. The longest track of the EP, Alcatraz flows so fluidly in its tender format, with simple beginnings in gentle playing, building to become raucous and rampant as the track deepens.

Penultimate track Judy Garland perfects its fizz of 60s pop. With radio crackles and vintage vibrance to boot. Lo-fi beauty displayed in all its ambience. The track has an abundance of lovelorn groovy vocals and melodious harmonies. Gifting that brilliant Beatlesque sound, one could only dream of! Guitar and drum pitches are repetitive and rhythmic, creating a song that is catchy and charming. As the EP comes to a close through final track When I Was Young. Tempos glide by in a yearning lullaby, to cast our minds out to the horizon and drift away on a gentle breeze. Melancholy, vintage blues wash over our consciousness. Caressed by Barton’s soothing soundscape. The beautiful lead-single of the EP, praised by BBC Introducing for its “Stevie Nicks-style” sound.

There is no denying that Queen of England sets a striking musical scene. A culmination of stories, moments and memories, embodied through rich vocals steeped in nostalgia and a sun-kissed charm. The variety of instruments used only enhance the gorgeous eccentricity, with a self-produced realness captured on the lo-fi four track recording.

Through Barton’s self-confessed “postcard from quarantine” we are swept away to another place and another time. A clever musical escape, that will surely resonate with many. 

Queen of England is available to stream and purchase now via Knifepunch Records

Follow Matthew Barton on Socials

https://matthewbarton.bandcamp.com

https://twitter.com/bartonmb

https://www.instagram.com/matthew.barton/

https://www.facebook.com/matthewbartonmusic

If you enjoyed what you read, and want to keep up to date with my writing. Follow me on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook! @beckyandthebands

Rosehip Teahouse Release New EP ‘Chillin in the Void’

Rosehip Teahouse Release New EP ‘Chillin in the Void’

by Rebecca Llewellyn ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Exploring emotion and self-expression in such a profoundly beautiful way. Discover the latest EP from Rosehip Teahouse Chillin in the Void. Led by the breathtaking vocals of Faye Rogers, Rosehip Teahouse hold our hand through their wonderous journey. Gifting music that swells with woozy love songs, earnest daydreams and intense emotion.

Gorgeously soft vocals set against twinkling synths and instruments, to create the loveliest blend of indie-pop. Emotive lyrics are woven with care, resulting in music that is tender and nurturing. Ensuring a comforting warmth wraps around us like a hug. No strangers to addressing fragile subjects; Rosehip Teahouse strip emotions bare, presenting them in their rawest and most vulnerable state. With an honesty so stark, their music is undoubtedly tinged with sadness. However, the resounding amount of empathy overwhelms any other disposition.

Chillin in the Void contains three previously released singles; It’s The Wrong Time, Regretting It and Thought Number 3. Alongside two brand new tracks; Space to Think and Lightfooted, for Once. Each exquisitely written, is home to its own unique message, meaning or purpose. Such sincerity sparks from their unflinching honesty in harnessing everyday thoughts, feelings, and struggles. Alluding that the ordinary is indeed rather extraordinary.

Magic found from within nostalgia and pondering, when thoughts are turned into lyrics.

You can stream or purchase Chillin in the Void via Sad Club Records

https://open.spotify.com/album/3yjuliCNARmkW9snMCw8wq?si=XjqWM9cNTgitF4hUyYtfTA

Follow Rosehip Teahouse

http://www.twitter.com/rosehipteahouse

http://www.instagram.com/rosehipteahouse

http://www.facebook.com/rosehipteahouse

If you enjoyed what you read, and want to keep up to date with my writing. Follow me on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook! @beckyandthebands

Matt Maltese Releases Madhouse EP

Matt Maltese Releases Madhouse EP

by Rebecca Llewellyn ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Exuding intoxicating charm, woozy emotion, and a dose of witty humour. Be prepared to swoon over latest EP Madhouse from Matt Maltese. Dreary everyday notions and nostalgic thoughts combine to create the most exquisite music, when paired with the sombre song-writing capabilities of this enchanting musician. Oozing an array of delectably smooth tracks, Madhouse hones notes of jazz, indie and Maltese’s classic bedroom DIY style.

From the dizzying romantic highs of Queen Bee to the agonising lows of Sad Dream. Maltese remains the reigning king of hearts, and if this recent vocal rendezvous is anything to go by, his reign is unlikely to end anytime soon. With eclectic yearn, Madhouse culminates to linger amongst late-night lovers and that sultry summer moonlight.

Breathing a new lease of life into music reminiscent of the past. Maltese’s modern musings schmooze against slinky piano keys and lo-fi tones, with fizzes of seventies pop for good measure. Vocals are crisp and effortless, and from a purposefully lounging lacklustre delivery emerges nothing shy of perfection, within these soft yet stirring songs. Met with the warmth of backing vocals from Asha Lorenz (Sorry) and guitars by Brian D’Addario (The Lemon Twigs).

Madhouse is available to stream and purchase now

Follow Matt Maltese

https://www.facebook.com/MattMaltesemusic/

https://twitter.com/matthewmaltese/

https://instagram.com/matthewmaltese/

If you enjoyed what you read, and want to keep up to date with my writing. Follow me on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook! @beckyandthebands

GILLIE Releases Debut EP Open Up, Honey

GILLIE Releases Debut EP Open Up, Honey

by Rebecca Llewellyn ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

To bottle an emotion, is to capture a moment. Holding on to a feeling, entwines memories within it.

Through Debut EP Open Up, Honey. GILLIE is completely in tune with her emotion.

Each song is a delicate glass jar. The contents of which are raw and sweet, yet a sharpness exists.

Pairing rich, earthy vocals with sweeping guitar sounds. GILLIE bares her soul through the most beautiful indie-folk music.

I had the overwhelming joy of premiering first track Winter Girl ahead of the release of Open Up, Honey. Engulfed with a love of GILLIE’s unwavering lyrics and gorgeous vocals. Her ability to expose such intense feeling is awe-inspiring.

Winter Girl resides as a song for growth. Recognising a difference in ones-self is a moment of freedom, yet with that freedom also exists a harsh undertone of deprecation. Past mistakes, doubts over your own identity, and cutting truths can rise to the surface. Winter Girl truly struck a chord with me. As Gillie admits to those bleak moments that often never meet the eyes of others, through her music.

For the EPs next track, Hear You Say, verses build to an intense chorus. Vocals rise to crescendo. Calmness breaks into a storm to be reckoned with, as GILLIE’s lyrical admissions deepen. Guitars pulse through the track like a heartbeat, and we feel our skin flush and emotions pivot from such raw honesty. Wounds from undeserving lovers are often deep, and GILLIE does not hide from her scars. Hear You Say is nothing shy of exquisite bravery. A beautiful song embodying the strength of wearing your heart on your sleeve.

Closing track Pleasant Thing is eerie by how well it resonates. A blend of soothing tones, gentle guitars and whispering vocals pry open the track. Leading us towards muted lyrics, cutting through like poetry. The poetic sombre nurtured by GILLIE, is once again achingly honest and so sublime.

Vocals lace through the mind of the listener delicately, yet the truths pouring through them awash all else. Soft, rhythmic instrument patterns compliment these vocals gracefully, whilst giving the track body and motion. Pleasant Thing soars to swoon in its breezy chorus, that yearns with sheer lust and longing. A gorgeous alternative love song. Pulling away from, yet pulling towards desire.

Each track presented within Open Up, Honey holds its uniqueness so well. Varying vocal pitches and depths convey such staggering emotion. I have no doubt, that each will hit home with their listeners in different ways.

Speaking of her Debut EP, Gillie explains;

This EP is based around the feeling of emerging from a grey, low place and rediscovering a place of certainly and comfort.

Overall, crafting an EP that is stunning, both vocally and lyrically. Pairing such refined vocals with gentle instrument playing has allowed for gorgeous juxtaposition.

Open Up, Honey is sublime in every way it could possibly be.

Recorded at Abbey Road Studios with Jean-Francois Machet. Consisting of Gillie Rowland on vocals, Ailsa Tully on bass and Finlay O’Hara on drums.

Open Up, Honey is available to stream now via Skivvy Records

Follow Gillie on her socials

https://www.instagram.com/gillie_music

https://www.facebook.com/GillieMusic/

https://twitter.com/GILLIE_music

If you enjoyed what you read, and want to keep up to date with my writing. Follow me on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook! @beckyandthebands