Laura Lucas is a Canada-born, Australia-based singer-songwriter who has just hit my radar thanks to the release of her new EP. An exploration of her sensitivity in an attempt to forgive herself for it, it’s called The Dreamer.

By Graeme Smith

Feature photo by Carly Boomer

Laura first picked up the guitar at the age of ten and soon discovered a joy for music and song-writing, using it as a form of therapy. Storytelling is at the heart of what she writes, garnering her comparisons to the likes of Lana Del Rey and Phoebe Bridgers. A 2019 exchange trip took her to Melbourne for the first time, and she now resides there, embedded in its creative community.

Her new EP gives us six vulnerable tracks, starting with Wake Up, Breathe In. Opening with a gentle acoustic guitar melody, we are quickly treated to Laura’s compelling vocals. They paint a vivid autobiographical picture, infused with a strong yet understated sense of emotion. It’s a captivating start.

Fonder gives us meditative piano and crystalline vocals. Its sense of minimalism draws you in before it explodes into life in a soaring chorus. I Imagine You Are Happy sees Laura team up with Lawson Hull and is a vibrant acoustic duet. Their vocals work beautifully together and it’s a mid-EP highlight.

Mirror on the Wall is a devastatingly reflective moment overflowing with pathos. Valentine’s takes things in a folksy direction. Its lyrics are a bittersweet mix of the visceral and the nostalgic. Title track The Dreamer closes the collection with an introspective moment. Speaking of grand plans and the fear of missed opportunities, there’s a touch of the timeless about it. It’s a final highlight.

Laura Lucas’s latest is a stunning collection. She’s an artist that I’ll be paying close attention to.

The Dreamer was recorded in Melbourne, Australia with artist and producer Dustin Tebbutt. You can give it a listen below.