Helen Maw has a great deal of heartbreak to share on debut album ‘Growing Pains’. The Liverpool singer/songwriter puts the piano centre stage in a series of songs that feature break-ups, shake-ups and the odd take-up of relationships. Mixed in with these emotional stories are a variety of instruments that all serve to enhance the narratives. This places her somewhere between Folk and Pop.
Opening track ‘Mine Tonight’ contains a splash of soul amidst a strong beat which matches the desire at the centre of the song. ‘This Lonely Boy’ then adds a beautiful bit of saxophone to elevate the yearning for self-acceptance; to “see the boy you’re meant to be”. An element of tragedy reigns in its closing lines – “this lonely boy who has my heart / can’t see he’s tearing us apart” – which echoes through several of the tracks that follow. Not before the title track offers up a self-referential bop; though even here, an undercurrent of sadness is present, particularly in the line, “oh how I’ll miss these growing pains”.
The electric guitar on ‘Your Little Secret’ produces a determined attitude that drives home the consequences of cheating. Then, from ‘Ain’t No Friend of Mine’ onwards, the album becomes much more reflective and sombre, the piano truly taking over. ‘Fool’ is one of the highlights, with echoes of Ella Fitzgerald’s ‘What are you Doing New Year’s Eve’, in both tune and sentiment. ‘Won’t You Stay’ holds a more positive message, especially in the lines “I look in your eyes / and I’ve got a feeling we’ll be fine”. There remains a shred of uncertainty however, left to hang in the aching final words, “just tell me your mine”. ‘Second Thought’ is then tragic, and ‘Things You Never Said’ is poignant, despite the uplifting music.
As a result, ‘Growing Pains’ feels like one long ballad; like Helen Maw is still working through those romantic encounters and distilling her emotions into life experience which will stand her in good stead as she moves on to that “next stage”.
You can purchase ‘Growing Pains’ here. To hear more from Helen, visit her Spotify page.
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Featured Images (C) Helen Maw Music
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