Claudia Jardine - EP Review: North
North is a literal breath of fresh air from Claudia Jardine, and it's very ably assisted by producer, multi-instrumentalist, and backing vocalist Taavi Paomets.
The title track North leads the charge, setting the expectation of clear yet lush production values for the five-track offering from Jardine. The first two tracks reminded me somewhat of Shona Laing - plenty of punch and a delicious amount of gravel in the vocals.
The highlight for me was Erase Me. This is an outstanding pop track, every bit as good as anything by Ed Sheeran (the artist I was strongly reminded of when listening to it). It's got a great hook and a driving rhythm and a memorable message. Terrific stuff!
Jardine's voice is gorgeous. Lyrics lead the way and every word is delivered with clarity. The true hero of the EP for me, however, is the production. It's surprising and refreshing and demonstrates an adept handling of dynamics. The use of percussion is delightful, including claps and clicks from Jardine and harmonics and string squeaks from Paomets.
North is a high quality offering that packs a punch far above its EP weight class. I really look forward to hearing more from Jardine and Paomets.
About Claudia Jardine
Born in Te-Tihi-o-Maru/Timaru and grown in Otautahi/Christchurch, Jardine taught herself to play the guitar and started writing songs from her early teens.
Following a successful crowdfunding campaign in 2015, she worked with Estonia-based Taavi Paomets (Avoid Dave) on her debut collection of songs North EP, set for release at the end of summer 2019. Drawing inspiration from artists like Florence + The Machine, St. Vincent, Lorde and Joni Mitchell, the EP throws vocal and lyrical punches with the tenacity of the pop genre from a folky foundation of acoustic guitars and percussion. Lyrically, the release is a marriage of sentimentality and curiosity, expressed in the direct and unassuming diction which has already marked Jardine as a poet to watch.
Visit the muzic.net.nz Profile for Claudia Jardine
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