Rachel Austin delivers her new EP Age Of Love, a three track collection of ballads and soft-sung harmonies, behind a breaking wave of jazz and blues instruments. The Virginia-born and Belfast-based singer/songwriter has spent the better part of three years creating a trilogy of EPs, of which this is the second. Her first, Age of Wisdom, was released last year to positive review. Her debut full-length album Hello My Uglies preceded that, in 2008.Close is a sultry, jazz ditty which is very reminiscent of Shivaree. The song begins meek, timid and controlled before it erupts in a chorus of drum and wail. She cites Regina Spektor as an influence and glimpses of Spektor style and arrangement are recognisable.
Though a much slower ballad, lead single Babydoll is the EP’s winner. The love song is clever in the way Austin flits between conversational lullaby and soaring melody. Austin is vulnerable and heartfelt, yet controlled. Enchanting and beautiful, paired with an interesting video.
The EP ends with Trace Kills, a more guitar-driven, yet still soft ballad. You can recognise the influence Virginia has had on Austin’s sound and writing. Her lyrics are open and almost look towards the skies with large images and ideas about heavens, flying away and nature.
Austin’s voice wails and wanders like it’s own instrument among a crescendo of jazz and downtempo beats. Dipping and soaring with dizzying variety. Her writing is honest and heartfelt, like a toned down Amanda Palmer (The Dresden Dolls), possessing a marginally similar singing style as well. You could nestle her among the great modern blues-influenced chanteuses Norah Jones and Bic Runga. One to watch and a testament to the Belfast music scene.