Mechanical Bride ‘Living With Ants’ (Transgressive)
Living With Ants is the debut album from self-taught musician Lauren Doss. While the cynics might ask if the world needs another singer-songwriter (and Lord knows I have been one of those cynics), put any suspicion or wariness you might have aside, and listen to this.
One of the many redeeming things about this album is that it is not drowning in (self-centred) angest. It’s a beautiful album – if you’ve heard the free single ‘Colour of Fire’ (included here) you should have an idea of what to expect. It’s a fiarlystripped down set of pervormances, led by Lauren’s voice and (I assume) her piano, with occasional guitar and strings.Her voice is reminsicent of Joanna Newsom, with hints of Kate Bush. ‘Demons’ is perhaps the strongest track here, featuring a hint of 1920s jazz. Other standout tracks include ‘Walk Into The Forest’ and’Peach Wolves.’
There is a lot of beauty on this record and some excellent ideas. There is much to be excited about here, and while I would like to see ms. Doss vary her palate a little more, she is streets ahead of much of the competition. It won’t appeal to everyone -but those who understand it will surely take it to their hearts.
***1/2
Living With Ants is out now on Transgressive