aaamusic | On 23, Aug 2010

Upon first listening to Rose Elinor Dougall’s new release Carry On, it’s easy to draw comparisons between the singer and Florence Welch (of Florence + The Machine) – both are strong female vocalists supported by a sound ranging from pure energetic pop to emotional and introspective, and both achieve this effect through a nifty mixture of traditional elements of rock n roll and sporadic use of electronic/studio effects. However, to write Dougall off as a ‘Florence clone’ would be both lazy and incorrect – as an artist she has a lot more to offer than that. In the titular single Carry On, Dougall’s crisp, sharp vocals jump back and forth between passionate to perfectly controlled, all the while backed by both a steady beat and alternately drawn out and frantic guitar riffs. The second track on the single, Grateful for the Grey, is far more understated. It could be likened somewhat to Bat For Lashes’ dreamy, almost psychedelic Two Planets, combined with elements of 60s pop rock. Comparisons aside though, Carry On really is a great single; both tracks are imaginative, fun and just plain enjoyable to listen to – here’s hoping Dougall’s full length is as successful.

Author: Katharine Sparks