In December of 2010, I touted British singer/songwriter Clare Maguire as ‘One to Watch‘ in 2011 and boy was she. Throughout much of 2011, I blogged about nearly every single she released leading up to (and following) the release of her debut album, Light After Dark. While I happened to love her debut album, it was always more about her unique voice, for me – rather than about the songs themselves. I was (and still am) mesmerized…transfixed…entranced…I can’t help it! With the first listen, it’s quite apparent that Clare Maguire‘s instrument is one-of-a-kind. Her deep, smokey and soulful vocals made an instantaneous connection with me…one that I have held firmly on to in the two plus years that have passed since any new music. Finally, in 2013…hope arrived in the form of some cover songs and demos released on Maguire’s Soundcloud. The most recent track to appear online, “Paper Thin,” might be my favorite of the bunch. Listen below:
Following rumors that she left her old label, Universal Republic, Clare Maguire has seemingly stayed pretty busy, writing and recording music that clearly resonates with her and her own personal struggles. Last week, she released the demo for a deeply personal new track, “Slightly Sober,” following the release of another similar-sounding track (“Changing Faces“) and a stunning Joni Mitchell cover song (“The Last Time I Saw Richard“), altogether indicating a complete musical shift for the promising 25 year old talent. Gone is the lush, sweeping and polished production heard on Light After Dark that only a major label budget could afford, leaving the listener with nothing but Maguire’s own pure and haunting vocals, floating effortlessly over folky yet soulful melodies. Sometimes, less is more.
Look out for an EP of new music (coming soon) followed by a new album. Clare will also be performing at some festivals this Fall, starting with BBC Radio 1 DJ Huw Steven’s Swn Festival in Cardiff in October. Be sure to follow Maguire on Soundcloud for the lastest new music.
Check out Clare Maguire on the web:
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