‘…not only Harvey’s vocal, cello, guitar performances that are impressive, but her capacity to take these very simple musical ingredients, and conjure up a wealth of emotions from them…’
Heralding from the Wirral, Grace Elizabeth Harvey is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who describes her musical modus operandi as the ‘musings of faith in a faithless world’. Garnering attention from BBC Radio and Amazing Radio, and having also been rewarded a bursary for the Humankind songwriting retreat, it is clear that there is something Harvey possesses that connects with audiences.
‘Other Faith’ is Harvey’s debut EP, offering a tender yet magical look into her ‘whimsigothic’ world. The EP has already taken her on an intimate tour across England and Wales. However, with the talent that Harvey possesses, it may well be a that these are simply humble beginnings for a very bright career.
Opening number ‘Lullaby for Wasted Time’ is masterfully composed, with Harvey’s feathery yet warm vocals perfectly sitting atop of an acoustic instrumental that hides surprising complexity. The guitar offers a simple suggestion of a melody, through its dreamy plucking and gently ebbing tempo, whilst the implementation of strings is subtly and beautifully executed, keeping the whole affair warm and intimate.
‘Birdsong’ is a quaint folk number with a tender yet playful charm, as Harvey contemplates her disconnect from the natural world, and the curse of being human. Her vocals gently weave through melodies, laced with a suggestion of both wistfulness and sorrow. On ‘Grace’, Harvey hits some truly beautiful notes during the track’s splendorous midsection, with the richness and depth perfectly complimenting the rising waves of cello that gently enrobe the listener.
‘Goodnight’ is a wonderful tonal shift, with a pensive and morose atmosphere. Harvey’s sharp upper register works perfectly in tandem with the sparse, minor key melodies conjured up by the guitar; it makes for a softly haunting experience to behold. Closing number ‘Belief (epilogue)’ is a gorgeous yet whimsical track that functions perfectly as an epilogue number. The track is carried by a buoyant rhythm and gently jovial folkish tone, resolving the musical ideas that are spread across the EP in a delightful manner.
It is not only Harvey’s vocal, cello, guitar performances that are impressive, but her capacity to take these very simple musical ingredients, and conjure up a wealth of emotions from them. ‘Other Faith’ keeps things simple, but is never boring, offering delightful performances across its runtime that range from pastoral whimsy to mournful rumination. A masterclass in understanding your craft.
RATING: 81/100 – Very Good
For Fans Of: Andy Hull, Eva Cassidy, Jeff Buckley, Katie Melua
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