Dan Sharp - EP Review: Water Went Away
Proud Coromandel boy Dan Sharp is
back with his latest EP, Water Went Away, and I can only concur with Corinne’s review of his last
EP, Slack Tide, in that we really need an album! This collection of five
songs loosely follows through the various stages of a breakup and the
significant life changes that happen as part of that such as moving to a new
house, moving town, being unable to access certain things, wondering what was
going to happen next etc. Two of the songs were recorded at Roundhead Studios
the week before lockdown, while the other three were recorded at home during
lockdown itself.
He is a dramatic singer-songwriter with a warm voice which really brings the listener into his tales, and while there are other instruments utilised, it is his vocals and acoustic guitar which really brings this home. His songs remind me particularly of Ed Sheeran in that they are understated, yet after only a few plays they are stuck fast in the brain. For me he is actually at his most effective when it is just Dan, with no additional elements whatsoever, as it here that the real beauty shines through. When additional instrumentation is kept to a minimum, such as on the first half of closer By Your Hand, then he is incredibly powerful and dramatic. However, there are times during the recording when the additional arrangement actually detracts from the overall effect, particularly the use of percussion, which feels somewhat at odds with the feeling being generated by his voice. The one time it all really comes together is on opener The Way That You Used To which starts and ends gently, but in the middle it is something far more dramatic and powerful.
However, this is a truly magical set in many ways, and I only hope I am able to catch him in concert, as I am sure that would be quite some experience. Let us hope a full album is not too far away.
About Dan Sharp
His soulful songwriting and lyrics are the foundation on which his rich, gritty vocals and guitar thrive.
With musical inspiration that ranges from early guitar-blues through to more modernly produced soul, pop and folk, Dan's sound and style of writing is well rounded, mature and thoughtful. His early work reached the ears of acclaimed NZ songwriter and producer, Thomas Oliver, who has produced Dan's upcoming EP.
Visit the muzic.net.nz Profile for Dan Sharp
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