Artist – Visions of Albion
EP – Visions of Albion
Released – 9th April 2021
Reviewer – Stuart Todd, Liverpool Acoustic
One of the last gigs I went to see before lockdown was the It Takes Two: Merseyside Best Vocal Duos event at the Liverpool Philharmonic Music Room. Visions Of Albion were one of the acts featured that night and it was clear from the audience reaction that their earthy performance was the highlight of the evening.
For their debut EP, the acoustic roots duo has teamed up with Klee Music. At the time of writing their limited-edition CD has already sold out on advance orders, making this release much anticipated.
Recorded with Jon Lawton at Crosstown Studios, the EP is an excellent showcase for the talents of vocalist Samantha Sheilds and musician Daniel Ryan. Their approach to song-writing borrows from the Laurel Canyon tradition with Sheilds breath-taking vocals recalling Emmylou Harris and Joni Mitchell. This is complimented by Ryan’s harmony vocals and solid musicianship. The chemistry between the two makes for a winning combination, with the flawless production allowing room for the duo’s personality to shine through.
Opening the set is their previous single You’re Not Alone [read our review here], a commentary on relationships that features a winning chorus. Ryan’s acoustic guitar playing is best showcased on Old Time Blues but it’s Shield’s vocals that are the main draw throughout. After the lively upbeat sound of Daily Life, they close with the stand out track All That I Know, a delicate piano ballad that features a sublime string arrangement from Amy Chalmers.
Visions Of Albion make a stunning debut with an EP that will continue to attract many more admirers.
Stuart Todd
Review © 2021 Stuart Todd, Liverpool Acoustic
Visions of Albion EP is released on 9th April 2021 by Klee Music.
Visions of Albion
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