Without denying a pop sensibility, Ellie Marie emphasises the traditional sounds of country on her latest EP ‘Don’t Take It to Heart’. The Bristolian Cowgirl, as she’s aptly named, layers all four tracks with a luscious pedal steel, drawing inspiration from the American South more than most UK artists. The effect conjures up an image of a honky-tonk bar in opener ‘Rock Bottom’, and a Downtown Nashville atmosphere on the title song. There is plenty of energy in the latter, blasting into life after a light acoustic intro, reflecting a no-cares attitude with plenty of ‘Shake It Off’ sentiment. The Swiftian influence is keenly felt, both in themes of love and heartbreak as well as lyrical loveliness and sass. “Loving you is what I’m living for” goes deep (‘Living For’), while “Maybe you think I’m out of line / it’s true” speaks of assurance and self-belief (‘Without You’). There is no denying that Ellie Marie is a force to be reckoned with. And with this new EP, it looks like a bright future ahead.
Featured Image (C) Ellie Marie
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