EP Review: When Tides Turn

Ōtepoti based singer, songwriter, and producer makes delicate, poetic music that to these ears draws on a storytelling, campfire folk tradition. Updated, I think, with smatterings of indie pop. When Tides Turn, her first EP, was made to be “a collection of introspective, nostalgic, and vulnerable songs shaped by a love of storytelling and poetry”. Does it live up to that claim? Perhaps, in some ways.

Her instrument of choice is principally an acoustic guitar, which on one or two tracks here, she blends in with her honey-sweet vocals. Whilst still young, it’s refreshing to hear a voice that’s unadulterated by overproduction. While there are plenty of ‘pop stars’ on the scene, I appreciate her un-polished product (brought about by a limited access), especially as it draws you into her room, her mind and her heart and rewards you with harmony and warmth in equal measure.

Aspirations of Norah Jones, Lizzy McAlpine, and Fiona Apple, I’m told in her publicity. But I think it’s nicer that they don’t appear prevalently on this tidy little EP.

Glitter Knees opens the set. This could easily be a number from an early Taylor Swift album (and I mean that as a compliment). A song about wanting to be loved for being yourself, it’s a nod to modern day Nashville troubadours, with a whiff of nostalgia and delicious hooky chorus. This is the most well-crafted bedroom ‘studio’ effort (she takes you through the process on her socials). But you can her that its’s fully formed and radio ready. Still, learning that it was all made on her laptop was a revelation. That’s pleasantly impressive!

For my money, it’s the previously unreleased Kondalilla that’s worth the most re-listens. Beautifully paced. Laurence’s voice sounds pure and crisp. The self-harmonies are clever, bringing in the warm fuzzies every time.

I might be wrong but to me this is an ode to threatened fate of Kondalilla National Park, a conservation reserve in Queensland.

“They just don’t listen, Kondalilla / Will you be the one who hears me talk? / The world has changed, now so unkind / They’re killing you slowly, go change their minds.”

I wonder if there’s a story to tell behind this song.

More goose bumps on the introduction to Who Are You?, claimed to be a demo. A nicely constructed song about finding yourself as you grow up. “Do you recognise yourself? / Carbon copy of somebody else / Watch your childhood disappear / You’re just ‘too old’ to even care…”

I really enjoyed the dreamy ballad Los Angeles, played simply on piano, with some simple synths, delicately underplayed and barely noticeable. The song feels like it’s nicely wrapped up in rom-com Hollywood ambience. Perfect for a Meg Ryan movie, you’d think.

Yet there’s more of a message to unravel. On her Instagram she claims the song is about “not knowing where you belong”. Lyrics speak of being an outsider looking for a home: “I wasn’t born here, wasn’t raised / But something draws me to your place.”

Given the recent political climate in California, this song feels even more politically relevant with every listen.

The folky strings on Apple, Honey, Cinnamon finishes off the collection with more quiet magic.

Through her socials, I’ve learned that this was a mostly homemade production, a totally impressive effort. Anna Laurence is one to watch. Clear, crisp songwriting and a pure vocal presence. She’s ready to win hearts and listeners in equal measure.