septagon_J100 copy

Birmingham, Alabama native/Los Angeles-based Beth Thornley returns with her fourth release/first EP, Septagon and this is fast becoming a favorite of mine.  Ms. Thornley knows how to construct a song and quality in pop.  The first of these four songs, “Say You Will” is a lush, full-sounding production with a warm piano beautifully accompanying her very sweet and warm voice.  The production is crisp and gives the guitar, drums and other nuances a completeness.  “It Could Be” has a slightly psychedelic tinge to it, which I think gives this song a wonderful edge – again, the vocals are embracing and give the track a greater emotional scope.  “Last To Fall” is a light-sounding piece but the lyrics are wonderfully scathing; this track (which features Glen Phillips of Toad The Wet Sprocket) has gentle arrangements which is a brilliant contrast to the sharp lyrics.  The last cut, “All These Things” is the most dramatic and fully-realized of the four songs, with its build ups and string arrangements.

Of course,  if I have one complaint it’s that this is an e.p. and not a full album.  No matter – I’ve now had my appetite whetted and I’m very much looking forward to hearing what Beth Thornley delivers next.

www.beththornley.com

About the Author

Rob Ross

Rob Ross has been, for good, bad or indifferent, involved in the music industry for over 30 years - first as guitarist/singer/songwriter with The Punch Line, then as freelance journalist, producer and manager to working for independent and major record labels. He resides in Staten Island, New York with his wife and cats; he works out a lot, reads voraciously, loves Big Star and his orange Gretsch. Doesn't that make him neat?

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