This is an EP with an unusual twist – it comes from three separate performers from the acoustic scene around London and Cambridge, who have each written, recorded and contributed three songs, making for an interesting audio concoction.
First up is the folksy-popster Jim Lockley with his band ‘The Solemn Sun’, whose bare bones style for the EP allows the emotion in his voice to be the most prominent feature. ‘Waitress’ has slowed down subdued moments, with juxtaposition bringing chirpy upbeat enthusiasm as well; with ‘Atlases’ being of a similar structure. His last ‘The Boat Song’, while not entirely indifferent from his other two, is a personal highlight, more laid back and blissfully dreamy.
Next on the bill is Ben Marwood, who softly sings and almost speaks on his powerfully endearing tracks. His songs are warm and heartfelt with ‘I Breath You In’ a perfect example of this, heartbreak and lust being at the centre of his tales. Following suit is (arguably the best track of all three artists) ‘You Can Hold On Once’, deciphering the life long confusions of love and death with hard hitting lyrics such as ‘love annulled my fear of death’ and ‘time is an investment but you can’t compete with love’ leaving a lasting memory.
The final contributor to the EP is Barry Dolan, known professionally as Oxygen Thief. Bringing the brashest of the 9 tracks and aggressively strumming on his domineering three songs, which are not really in keeping with the tone of the other artists. His efforts offer very little diversity, with his shouty, insipid vocals coupled with harsh guitar being the standard formula for his music.