Forget your busy life, lay down your cares for a moment and take time to enjoy some fine melodic music from Jessica’s Ghost. Their EP ‘Return to the Start’ is a small collection of finely fashioned soulful songs built on groundwork of intricate musicianship, perceptive lyrics and superb vocals.

I’m told folk songs are intense, meaningful, narrative songs, filled with social commentary. I’m also told that pop music has none of those qualities. I’d argue with that - some pop music has great depth and is the folk music of its day. Who cares? However you arrive at your definitions, Liverpool-based Jessica’s Ghost make great music – folk or pop.

‘Stand Alone’ is one of those songs that you hear once and it’s with you all day. That’s no criticism – because the more you hear it the more there is to hear. Emma’s voice delivers the sensitive poignant lyrics beautifully. And I’m pleased to tell you that Seb’s percussion is spot on - with such an upfront beat many drummers would swamp the vocals. ‘Sarah’ is a gem – and my favourite track. Emma’s voice hits all the right emotional buttons with her delivery of the sensitive lyrics that reach out to touch your soul, while cello and mandolin set up connections of subtlety that fit perfectly. 

Some songs take unusual turns often when you least expect them – ‘Disguise’ is one of those. Perhaps the least immediately accessible song on the EP but persevere you’ll grow to love it. There’s depth worth reaching into. Listen to the lyrics and tell me you don’t identify with the sentiment. ‘Run Away With Me’ is another beautiful slice of spirit for your imagination  - “Run away with me ‘til there’s nowhere left to hide,” - these folk write superb songs about life experiences that affect all of us. If this one doesn’t get to you you’re already dead and don’t know it.

Jessica’s Ghost an unsigned band? I for one cannot imagine why. When you find yourself outside the doors of a club with Jessica’s Ghost headlining, go in, you’ll be glad you did.

Jessica’s Ghost is Emma (guitar, vocals) Martin (keyboards, mandolin, vocals) Moxy (double bass, bass, mandola) Sarah (cello) and Seb (drums, percussion).

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