Two begins with Allie’s latest single ‘Simplest of Freedoms’ a delicate and hopeful song, which really captures the depth of Allie’s voice without falling back on clichés and theatrics. The video which can currently be viewed on Youtube tells the harrowing story of Human Trafficking, an extremely topical issue in Northern Ireland and one which Allie and Kiernan have dealt with beautifully.
‘Be My Husband’ however takes us in a completely different direction. Combining a gospel choir clap rhythm with Allie’s soulful vocals this track manages to feel both full and stripped back at the same time. Despite my feminist feathers being slightly ruffled by the message I can’t help but be seduced by the catchy beats and before long my foot is tapping along. I adore the variety in this EP and the third track ‘I Will Follow’ adds a continental feel. A twangy guitar riff and slowly building background rhythm, advancing from brushes to clapping and even an electric guitar bridge thrown in at the end has created a delightful mix. At some points throughout the track I can close my eyes and become convinced that I’m strolling down a Spanish boulevard. This is my new summer track.
‘I Stayed Awake’ sounds a lot like Allie’s earlier work and unfortunately I felt that that for that reason it seemed out of place on the EP. With each previous song having a very distinct sound this one feels I little left behind in the spicy mix we’ve already tasted. Saying that it is a great track with some memorable lyrics and I would love to see it carried forward to a later EP or even an album when it could be fully appreciated.
Finally, the song which started it all, ‘I Need Money’ could not be more relevant in the current economic climate. Taking on a lazy upbeat rhythm, Aaron and Allie have collaborated many times before and it is easy to see how comfortably their styles slide together. This is a perfect finish to such an eclectic piece of work.
◀ STANDOUT ⁞ I Will Follow ▶
◀ CONNECTION ⁞ Laura Marling ▶
