Annabella’s release 11/10 is a wonderful song in so many ways. Musically it presents a gorgeous fusion of delicate folk and colourful pop, yet lyrically there is something incredibly honest and endearing at hand that draws you into its truth in a compelling way.
The sound is blissful from the offset, calming and minimalist in nature – the simple finger-picking of an acoustic guitar, a beautifully raw and almost whispered leading vocal; flawlessly carrying this captivating and memorable melody along in a natural and seemingly effortless way. The songwriting is phenomenal, unusual and interesting yet taking on the most effective mannerisms of crafting an addictively enjoyable piece of music. I was reminded of the first few releases from Laura Marling when it was simply the artist and an acoustic guitar. There’s something fresh about these words and this perspective, the emotional connection described, a reminder of loyalty and the things that matter. It’s inspiring to listen, and because the music surrounding and supporting the sentiment is so subtle and gentle in nature, you’re even more inclined to really focus on the story-line, the ideas, the poetry, the encouraging sentiment.
Poetry is an important word, the first of many that come to mind when listening – the opening line offers up imagery that sets the bar high for what will follow, and nothing thereafter disappoints. The concept itself is simple, clever, original yet instantly effective in that it makes perfect sense – more and more so the further into the song you get. There’s a certain meeting of the dark and the light within the lyrics, and this is reflected gorgeously by the melody and by Annabella’s unique delivery of the song. After hearing only this one release, the sound is likely to stay with you, as is the superb style and skill inherent within the songwriting; making the prospect of future releases an unmissable one.
Stream the song on Spotify. Find & follow Annabella on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram. Visit her Website or the ACR label’s Website for more information.
