Canadian-born, UK-based multi-instrumentalist Laura Reznek‘s mostly self-produced third album, The Sewing Room, is an in-depth exploration of grief, its aftermath and the ultimate clarity and focus that it can provide. All throughout the album Reznek’s ethereal voice cycles through emotions such as melancholy, vulnerability, defiance, frustration and hope.
Taking inspiration from influences such as Judee Sill and Nick Drake, she weaves lyrical poeticism à la Fiona Apple with waves of multi layered vocal lines and an organic acoustic sonic palate.
Opener ‘Yacht Rock’ starts with simple acoustic guitar and vocals and build into a full band crescendo at the end, as echoing the frustrations of life.
Latest single ‘Spades’ refers back to childhood struggles, whilst the hypnotic melody bounces over the rolling piano and guitars.
Commenting on the track, Reznek says:
“‘Spades’ explores the fragmented memories that arise after a major life event, a melding of past and present. It’s a sense of trying to untangle the two and come to terms with what is.”
Both ‘Lost on me’ and ‘Endeavours’ tackle relationships that have turned sour and the introspection required to learn lessons from it. Here, Reznek’s compelling storytelling truly comes to the fore.
The ‘Exit Plan’ delves into yearning territory, with Reznek encapsulating the feeling of helplessness and wanting to help a loved one, as she sings:
The only thing I wished, above anything else, was an alternate ending, Where I helped you
Other highlights include the edgier ‘The Centre’, driven forward by the impatient drums and building into an anthemic backing, before drawing back and letting single piano notes ring out, emulating the lyrics investigating a broken relationship.
The album closes out with ‘Grit’, where Laura cleverly uses language and rhythms to convey a sense of someone stuck in a rut.
All in all, The Sewing Room is an affirmation of the intricate tapestry of our lives: how we can simultaneously progress and reflect, how the present remains connected to the past, and how joy and grief can coexist harmoniously.
Stream The Sewing Room on Spotify.
Catch Laura Reznek live on 7th May at Old Church, St Pancras, London
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