Semper Femina – Laura Marling
Simply put, this lady is a master of her craft. She has released 6 albums, all with their own story and all with their own grace. Her newest, Semper Femina, is my favourite to date. The writing is everything you would expect from this deeply sensitive and observant artist. The lyrics are as relatable as any artist I’ve come across, mainly due to Marling’s intense understanding of relationships. The sound is compelling, with twists and turns you wouldn’t expect but that soothe the ears as much as the first track promises. Marling’s voice has developed into a smooth yet mature dulcet tone. I couldn’t recommend this album enough.
Best tunes: Wildfire and Always This Way
Melodrama – Lorde
Lorde has blossomed into an artist that is able to capture the millennial spirit more than anyone else in the mainstream. Her pop appeal shouldn’t turn any of us off her- in fact it should draw her to us all the more. Her ability to turn pop music troupes into meaningful themes is what makes her standout among a lot of the mulch in the charts around at the moment. What made me respect her the most was her performance of Green Light on Later… With Jools Holland. Here, she delivers a raw performance, dancing and belting as if this song was her truth. I honestly believe she will grow to be one of the most influential artists of our generation.
Best tunes: Green Light and Liability
Crack Up – Fleet Foxes
The complexity of this album still blows my mind. Not only the lyrics but the sound is challenging yet brilliant. Robin Pecknold’s voice keeps the Fleet Foxes vibe perfectly and I can vouch for the fact that this is true live as well as on record. Seeing them live was electric and impressive as well, with each song bringing a new troupe of instruments on to the stage. These guys are a class act.
Best tunes: If You Need To, Keep Time On Me and Fool’s Errand
Yesterday’s Gone – Loyle Carner
Everyone who knows me knows that I’m obsessed with this guy. His humble and clever lyrics spread over smooth beats like butter on toast. I have been listening to this album on repeat ever since it came out and I can honestly say it never gets boring. If this is his first offering I see big things in his future and I can’t wait to see what he does next.
Best Tunes: Isle Of Arran and Damselfly
This Old Dog – Mac Demarco
This album proves Mac has grown since his summery debut. With introspective lyrics exploring the relationship with his father, his hazy sound appears different and tinged with a kind of nostalgic sadness. He’s the funniest dude in music these days but his high energy persona is brought down like the slow dance at a high school prom. Keep it coming, Mac.
Best Tunes: My Old Man and On the Level
Lots of lovin’
Emma xxx
We Need More Cowbell 