☆☆☆☆☆
Image: Supplied
Rising UK-based singer-songwriter Holly Humberstone’s spellbinding debut EP is nothing short of pure perfection. Falling Asleep At The Wheel continues to prove the singers undeniable talent and skilful songwriting abilities. At just 20 years old, Humberstone is carving her own path on her debut release.
Opening with her debut single Deep End, Humberstone opens up about her sisters challenges with depression and her undeniable commitment to being a supportive figure within her life. The honest and emotional track pairs warm guitar chords with a strikingly clear vocal performance. On the ethereal title track, Falling Asleep At The Wheel, navigates a one sided relationship. The song opens with upbeat piano chords before moving into haunting synth sounds over warped handclaps.
Overkill is a perfect summary of the emotions that go hand in hand with new love. The confident tracks verses are sometimes comparable to Lorde’s early track Ribs, yet feels fresh and sonically invigorating. The honest and conversational lyrics draw the listener in whilst feeding them with beautiful melodies and harmonies. Standout track Drop Dead, navigates a troubled and manipulative relationship, one the narrator cannot escape due to the blinding love they feel. Humberstone’s haunting vocal performance is emphasised over gentle rhythms and sparse ambient beats, creating a darker atmosphere.
Vanilla continues Humberstone’s direct candour and personal lyricism genius on the song, combining detailed storytelling with a conversational delivery. Falling Asleep At The Wheelcloses with Livewire. The piano-led track is personal and heartbreaking, lyrically addressing how nothing can last and the demise of an intense and thrilling relationship.
Falling Asleep At The Wheel is a brilliant debut release. Comparable to music from Lorde and Billie Eilish, Humberstone exhibits a maturity that many of her pop predecessors worked away at for years before achieving. The emotional clarity paired with exciting and stirring sentimental production leaves you wanting more, but the honest and conversational six tracks are more than enough for the moment. Each listen brings new emotions, discovering lyrics you may have missed that hit you directly. Humberstone has exhibited poise and grace on her debut EP, creating an intimate atmosphere to share her innermost thoughts.
5/5 Stars
Falling Asleep At The Wheel is out now!