Juliet Lawson
Album: Songs From The Suitcase
Label: Self Released
Tracks: 4
Website: http://www.julietlawson.com

For an artist who first emerged back in 1972, it seems things have never quite panned out for Juliet Lawson. Her debut album Boo, released that year and reissued in 2005, was met with flattering reviews and Lawson was viewed as a highly promising singer-songwriter. The hype unfortunately never translated to the success that Lawson was due. Moving to release her albums independently in the years after, and maintaining her cult following, the separation between releases is perhaps reasoning for her not building upon her talents.

This release similarly marks her first original work for 10 years. Titled 'Songs From The Suitcase...' the four track EP is a collection of charming pieces encompassing blues, jazz and folk inspirations. EP opener 'The Skin You're In' displays a cool bit of blues guitar above acoustic chords before moving into a section of fiddle. Lawson's vocals suit the piece well, breathy and extended at times. Working with skilled musicians it really shows in 'Melancholy Blue'. The melodic clarinet is accompanied by beautiful piano and guitar. 'Waste of A Woman' is a pleasant piece that moves from quite a laid back feel into an upbeat section which introduces a toe-tapping drum beat. 'A Woman Passer By On The Street' is perhaps the most ambitious track but falls short in places. A reflective chord sequence opens and Lawson's vocals maintain this mood. The most engaging section is when the brass solo is introduced. Still, Lawson's songwriting prowess is clearly apparent.

Juliet Lawson's sound and story is reminiscent of resurgent folk singer Linda Perhacs. Releasing her album back in 1970, Parallelograms was recently picked up after its reissue and has enjoyed cult success. Playing out much like Lawson's career, Perhacs gained deserved credit for her only album release. Lawson's album Boo deserves similar credit, however the difference is that Lawson is still able to create this kind of work.

'Songs From The Suitcase...' is out on February 4th.

Anthony David