Holly Humberstone
Cruel World LP
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Some album reviews take a long time to write. The song-by-song analysis. The shifting of moods. The thematic switches. With Holly Humberstone’s Cruel World long player, there’s something uniquely consistent to this record that makes is somewhat easy.
From the cinematic opening of ‘So It Starts…’ to the heavy emotion of album closer ‘Beauty Pageant’ the guarantee is that you get shimmering rich tones, a pop sensibility, and depth. Humberstone’s voice is quality, delivering sweet sweeping highs and crackling emotional swoops.
The stand outs are numerous, but if you’re curious start with ‘Make It All Better’, ‘To Love Somebody’, and ‘Blue Dream’. Once you bathe in the first few tracks you’ll be ready for the subtle Beatlesy hints, melodramatic moments, and subtle country twists.
As always, make sure your selection is for the uncensored version of the album and leave the radio edits for the eternally prudish broadcasting corporations of the world. I have a strong opinion for music that if your words are an honest reflection of the song’s emotion, you can say whatever you want. A moment’s ‘kiss me like you fucking mean it’ won’t corrupt your children.
If you liked Paint My Bedroom Black you’ll be delighted with Cruel World, and Holly Humberstone has brought enough fresh new ideas to keep you enraptured.
The wondrous blue vinyl is available accompanied by a signed print while stocks last.
To Love Somebody Video
Watch Holly Humberstone – ‘To Love Somebody’.
Holly Humberstone Articles
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