22 Nov 2024
Running Stitch - EP Review: It's On
13 Feb 2015 // A review by Andrew Smit
This little EP offers 4 tracks of original material which is
the creation of the creative exploits of singer songwriter Aletta Ashdown. The
first 3 tracks are delivered in alternative rock folk style with a grinding
rhythmic distorted guitar, providing a grungy edge to Aletta’s clean vocals.
The songs progress at a nice pace each with a clearly audible vocal making the
thoughtful lyrics and agreeable melody accessible to the ears. She has created
a distinctive sound, a curious mix of grunge rock and pop with a quirky folk
style of delivery. Aletta’s melodic singing is stimulating and charming, very
warm and expressive with a playful edge.
The last track is an attractive soft acoustic number called It’s On which floats whimsically through the air thanks to the fluttering flute like keyboards and wooing harmonious back vocal segments. Running Stitch has delivered an enjoyable debut EP that’s not afraid to offer something different, music that is quirky but neatly composed and well executed. A high quality EP that hits a nice pitch, so like me you should keep an ear out for Running Stitch.
About Running Stitch
Over the years Aletta has had her fingers in a number of musical pies. In 2012 Aletta performed back-up vocal duties for pop-folk band Cold Harvest Trust lead by Canadian songwriter Andrew Cowie whose New Bones EP was recorded and mixed at Earwig Studios by Flying Nun alumni and one-time 95bFM presenter Darren McShane. It was the Earwig connection that lead to Aletta’s recent involvement in Auckland post punk new wave outfit Superturtle.
As a solo act Aletta regularly attends open mic nights around Auckland including The Portland Public House and The Claire Inn. In the past Aletta has played support slots for Tahuna Breaks and the Phil Edwards band and featured in several live to air performances on Kiwi FM, 95bFM and the now defunct Alt-TV. In 2012 Aletta was a showcased performer at the Bunker Hill Folk Review followed by a stint in the ensemble cast for the Andrew Lloyd Webber musical Tell Me On A Sunday featuring Carly Binding. Earlier this year Aletta performed with a bunch of other local Rodney musicians at the Muriwai Beach Waitangi Day Festival on the same bill as Tiki Taane, Warren Maxwell and Soljah.
Visit the muzic.net.nz Profile for Running Stitch
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