Once a Social worker, Cornwall UK multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter Rosalie James gets behind early parenting with Storefront Church in her sensational and cinematic rock single, โISLAND.โ Released this May 22, it rings a bell for us Mitski, Kate Bush, Stevie Nicks, Bon Iver, The National, and Fleetwood Mac fans.
Shimmering melodic guitars chime about, leaving a soothing aura hanging above the music. As for the drums, they tick and tap throughout forming a churning intensity like a constant distress peeling its skin. Jamesโ feathery high voice flits between softness and soaring despair.
With lyrics delving into the raw vulnerability of young parenthood, Jamesโ delivery helps us dive into the story. She portrays herself as an โisland,โ isolated and fracturing under the weight of responsibility. In her words, โISLANDโ is an acronym for โI Saw Love As Not Dying.โ
Storefront Churchโs guest verse brings a soaked-up tenderness with his rich, emotive expression perfectly capturing the regret of a parent who couldnโt be everything their children needed. The line, โToo far removed to carry you home/Gave no example, watching you grow,โ hangs heavy in the air, a stark reminder of lost opportunities. But as Rosalieโs voice arises alongside singing agonizingly, โI made you in the confidence of reckless youth,โ we suddenly know how it all started.
The bridge beholds a swirling intensity, culminating in Jamesโ breathless vocals, exhaling incense. a sense of desperate searching for meaning. The trailing strings underscore a moment of epiphany: โSuddenly I see it/The camouflage of blinding self-belief.โ
Listen to โISLANDโ to find motherhood merging with flailing mental health and seeking redemption. Stay tuned for Rosalie Jamesโ debut album Full of Chemicals coming 28th of this very month!
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Review by Naomi Joan