Quirky yet meaningful is a difficult balancing act to pull off, but the willis ordeal manage this with their self-titled EP.
By Graeme Smith
The Willis Ordeal was recorded in one day on a boat in East London. When you read that, you might expect it to feel a little rushed. On the contrary, the EP feels like more than the sum of its parts, and its simplified recording process gives it a sense of rawness and intimacy that really grabs you.
Across its four tracks, we are introduced to their world and Matt Willis, the singer-songwriter behind it. Collectively the tracks explore themes of change, resilience, and fleeting moments of calm amid chaos, feeling familiar yet adventurous all at once.
As well as balancing the quirky and the meaningful, the EP also weaves seamlessly between the classic and the modern. Elements of old school rock and roll, particularly in the bright and breezy closer Backseat Driver, square dance alongside contemporary indie rock and pop.
Before we get there, we’re treated to the joys of Calm, Hairclips and Change, and When It Rains.
Calm gets the collection going in a laidback style. A soothing groove sets the scene before cool vocals paint a picture with plenty of storytelling detail. There’s a natural build to a chorus that feels classic, channelling the likes of Stevie Wonder.
Hairclips and Change by contrast, ramps up the tempo and energy. Still cutting through still are the narrative-driven lyrics. The chorus has an understated, cinematic drama.
When It Rains is the EP’s most stripped-back moment, led by acoustic guitar and gentle, purring vocals. A sense of poignancy is infused in every note, especially when the full, soulful arrangement kicks in.
In many ways, the willis ordeal is a project that could only be born in London. Willis is deeply immersed in the local scene, hosting “Presents” shows for emerging artists to perform while backed by the band. This sense of community seems to bleed through to the final recording.
The willis ordeal is an act to which I will definitely be returning. A strong ethos, poignant, understated lyrics, and an effortless classicality make their EP a compelling listen and has me craving more.
You can keep up to date with the project via their website, and by following them on Instagram, Spotify, and Apple Music.
Produced by James Kavanagh, The Willis Ordeal EP is out now, and you can give it a listen below.
