RECLAMATION IS POWER | ‘SEVEN’ NEW EP BY LOIS
EP REVIEW | LOIS – SEVEN by Rachel Puk
This summer, Leeds based songstress Lois has made her mark with her new EP SEVEN. Her first project as an independent artist is a defiant reclaim of self, and Lois’ headstrong persona oozes through the record.
The release of the highly commended singles ‘MINE’, ‘LOVE YOU BETTER’ and ‘SEVEN’ brought high anticipation for the rest of this record. This project details a reclamation of self and channeling power – I spoke to Lois back in March to hear about her emotional and musical navigation of this project, and hearing this single has satiated knowing her creative process. Self esteem and the uncertainty of adulthood is spun round Lois’ musical vision, and this EP is a five course meal of the experience.
Opening track ‘MINE’ is a stern and dynamic start to the project, settling her audience into her new era with a cathartic first chorus. Next, in titular track ‘SEVEN’, Lois’ vocals totally shine. An almost spoken-word reel of lyrics are met with a honeyed and melodic refrain, ‘I don’t know you anymore’, and lead us into her irrevocably catchy chorus. This track really does take me back to the charts 7 years ago: heavy reverb and synths with a meticulous layering of vocals amongst the track’s sleek simplicity.
Lois completed her release with ‘PHOENIX’ and ‘APRIL SHOWERS’. The two tracks deepen her discography both emotionally and musically.
‘PHOENIX’ grapples with femininity and societal expectations. Poignant vocals turn stoic when Lois solidifies the soundscape with a series of spoken word. The powerful three-minute track pushes Lois further into the beautiful rise of powerful women in pop.
‘God forbid we could hold knowledge and power,
have ideas of our own
dismissed beyond comprehension
and doubted in what we know.’
Exit track ‘APRIL SHOWERS’ is built on heart-warming riffs yet ruminates on unwritten endings. A full and well-balanced track to draw this powerful new project to an end. Quickening drums and keys support Lois into a cathartic crescendo, fulfilling this project entirely. This track plucks our heartstrings in Lois’ key.
‘We left our love in April showers’.
Lois has proved her dynamic abilities in using each track to scratch a different sound – but ultimately this project is undeniably well rounded and all her’s. Lois’ new-found independence has allowed for total reclamation. Her style, sound and attitude is bound to have her reach new heights, and I cannot wait to hear her on stage.
