After teasing us with some sublime tracks over the last few months HerOrangeCoat has now released those songs along with a couple of new ones to form her 5-track EP ‘Ballads For This Age’. It kicks off with “Ballad 1 (Sorry)” a toweringly, transcendent and heavenly song. The emotion in her voice and the sparseness of the instruments made the hairs on the back of my neck stand up, not in fear, but in awe of such a gorgeous piece of music. Apparently, the song is not a cry for help, but rather a resolute, resigned defeat. It speaks to the vast mental health emergency, whilst detailing HerOrangeCoat’s own personal journey with anxiety. Next comes “Ballad 2 (Skin Off My Back)”. It is a divinely dark slice of modern folk which feels like a deeply personal song and Georgia delivers it with controlled emotion and finesse. This is a majestic and heavenly tune.
“Ballad 3 (Jamaica ’59)”, is my current favourite. It flows like a river enriched with Joni Mitchell’s essence. The music is understated, but excellent, and Georgia’s voice is spectacular and perfect. It has folk, jazz, and soft rock entwined throughout. Incidentally “Ballad 1 (Sorry)” and “Ballad 2 (Skin Off My Back)” made it into the Mayhem song chart hitting number 2 and number 1 respectively. HerOrangeCoat once again proves that she is not afraid to use the gaps between notes in the dark, mysterious “Ballad 4 (Second Nature)”. The simplicity draws you deep inside the song and then unveils its mesmerising complexity. The EP ends with a song that doesn’t have the Ballad prefix. It is, appropriately, entitled “Postscript” and the simple and beautiful harp sound carries you into an ethereal Valhalla of music. Georgia’s voice and backing vocal is emotional, soulful and glorious. This is a stunning EP and one which I will be playing often. You need this music in your life.
If you have enjoyed this article, feel free to follow the blog, or follow us on; Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, Bluesky, Linkedin, and EMail. Are you interested in writing and reviewing for With Just A Hint Of Mayhem? If so then please get in touch.
With Just A Hint Of Mayhem 