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 imageContinue reading “Ellie Marie – Don’t Take It to Heart”
Tag Archives: taylor swift
Nia Nicholls – If You Want a Sign
The latest single from Nia Nicholls cements her growing reputation as a British Taylor Swift. It is no exaggeration to say that in both her vocals and subject matter, the Welsh singer-songwriter displays the kind of Swiftian vibes that reverberate back to the American’s earlier canon of hits. ‘If You Want a Sign’ stands onContinue reading “Nia Nicholls – If You Want a Sign”
Country-Pop Music: Chet Atkins and the Nashville Sound
Critics of the ‘Nashville/ Taylor Swift effect’ often argue that it has led to an identity crisis in country music. Debates over the last few years have centred around the idea that the genre has moved so far toward pop that it has somehow lost its soul. Songs such as ‘Meant to Be’ by FloridaContinue reading “Country-Pop Music: Chet Atkins and the Nashville Sound”
Catherine McGrath – Starting From Now
Why has it taken me so long to properly listen to Catherine McGrath? Having heard Bob Harris play “Hell Would Have to Freeze Over” on his Radio 2 show a few months ago, I can’t believe it has taken me until now to give her my undivided attention. Since then, she has released her secondContinue reading “Catherine McGrath – Starting From Now”