I’m overworked, or this new EP by British country star Ellie Marie would have been reviewed by now. It was released on all platforms on August 22, so you may well have heard it by now. As it is, I am pleased to give you the low down and provide my thoughts on this late summer contribution to the growing New Wave of British Country Music.
My press pack tells me that Ellie Marie has released an EP consisting of a four-track record featuring the single “Rock Bottom” alongside three other songs that further demonstrate the immense talent that the Bristol born artist possesses.
Throughout the record Ellie Marie effortlessly weaves pop sensibilities throughout her natural cowgirl vibes making for a vibrant collection of songs that embody everything she stands for as an artist. This is a record that pushes her out of her comfort zone allowing her the opportunity to reach new ears.
There’s something undeniably transfixing about the “Don’t Take It To Heart” EP and Ellie Marie as an artist overall and it’s exciting to have an extended body of work from the UK artist who is a wonderful mix of Shania Twain and Taylor Swift vibes with a dash of Colbie Caillat. This is a release that allows Ellie Marie to create something that will stand the test of time and further push her to the forefront of the growing British scene whilst garnering the attention of international fans such is the quality of the collection.
Moving beyond the press pack, I’m stretched out in bed with the headphones. All is quiet and the night draws in – just time to allow myself to drift with some uptown country before sleep arrives.
My review: The EP has four songs and lasts just over 13 minutes.
“Rock Bottom,” is where you see your ex with someone else and have the sense of loss that comes when “rock bottom is missing you.” It is a song of lost love and being alone at the bar, the lyrics are sad but the music uplifts and the vocals are pleasing, with a built in wink! Ellie delivers a song that has you gently swaying to the beat and enjoying the moment. (I did review the single previously here at the magazine)
“Living For” is a gentle nod toward your special other. It has a closely intimate feel, a song that slipped nicely into my late night reverie. I enjoyed the feeling of sea water washing over the beach, you sit and watch the waves go by – dreamy moments!
“Without You” is up next and it has a slight change of feel. This one is short and has a catchy feeling built in the beat. It is a faster track and this one would surely go down great live. The audience would get into this I’m sure, it has a definite appeal for commercial radio too, I could see this one getting a few plays on country stations.
“Don’t Take it to Heart” closes the EP in a whimsical fashion. It has a lyrical smile and is comfortable with what it does, picking up in a confident country swagger mid section.
At just 13 minutes long, Don’t Take It To Heart leaves you wanting more, but sometimes the shortest journeys make the most lasting memories. If you’re looking for a late-summer soundtrack that blends Nashville sunshine with Bristol grit, Ellie Marie is the one to watch. British country music its voice, and right now it sounds a lot like Ellie Marie.
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You can stream music by Ellie Marie here.
Artist website here
By Lorraine Foley