Lyon, France-based singer songwriter Marlene Larson first came to my attention last month. The second single release from her debut EP was the rich and intoxicating I Said I’m Fine. That EP is now out and I was very keen to give it a listen. It’s called Galore.

By Graeme Smith

Galore is five tracks of self deprecation and inner turmoil. Musically, it draws on inspirations such as Alanis Morissette, Avril Lavigne and the kind of bands you’d hear playing at the Bronze on the ’90s TV show Buffy the Vampire Slayer. It opens with Birthday. A lush and emotional start, there’s an instant feeling of vulnerability about its composition and Marlene’s expressive vocals. It develops into a lively soft rock arrangement that will have you feeling along. It’s a beautiful start.

The aforementioned I Said I’m Fine comes next, slowing things down but not losing any of the emotional impact. The charisma that Marlene displays in this track is the perfect reminder of why I fell in love with her music in the first place, and its memorable chorus is a highlight.

Careful is a stripped back and raw moment where the storytelling of the lyrics takes centre stage. Title track Galore introduces some country rock elements. It trots along with a compelling dreaminess before reaching a timidly-affirming bass heavy chorus. The EP closes with the jangly shoegaze of Public Apology. It’s Marlene’s most experimental moment and also the EP’s most exciting track. She certainly knows how to leave the best for last.

I review so much music for this blog and there are rare moments where I am truly blown away by an artist. This debut by Marlene Larson is one of those moments. She takes familiar musical forms and reinvents them into something that is uniquely hers and she doesn’t shy away from expressing her emotion loud and proud. Galore is a candidate for EP of the year for me.

Galore is out now via Unicum Music. You can give it a listen below.