Tara Simmons’ voice is beautiful and effortless, and she uses it just like any other instrument. Her awareness for intricate arrangements and textures are wonderful. This five track EP from lovely Brisbane lady will take you to another place.
Opener The Fundamentalist, starts with haunting vocals and delicate banjo and develops into infused harmonies as Simmons vocals soar above the layered instruments. As Simmons lyrically plays with emotions- ” you never knew a loneliness like this,”- so too do the epic melodies, hand claps and cello (a favourite of mine). It’s a perfect opener and sets the foundations for some striking pop tunes. All You Can is Simmons at her pop best. As her vibrant vocals jump around, the off-beat rhythms ignite – this track is too fun.
I must say, The Worst of It was my EP highlight. There is something about the combination of Simmons gentle, melodies coupled with the string instrument sounds that make me shiver- and the trumpet cameo is the icing on the cake. As Simmons vocals joyfully intertwine the piano, you are instantly transfixed by the simple minor melodies. The arrangement is really clever, what is not so clever is that I just missed her in Sydney! Hopefully more touring is to come from this wonder woman.
Originally published on: thedwarf.com.au