Rosie Bans

If you were a fan of Sophisti-pop back in the 80's when bands ranging from Swing Out Sister and Prefab Sprout to The Blue Nile and Everything But The Girl ruled the charts, then you're going to love Identify Yourself; the debut album by young, flame-haired Glasgow songstress Rosie Bans

The album is funded by Creative Scotland and it's ethos falls in line with that of Ralph's Life regarding mental health awareness. 

Rosie Bans states - "I have a strong desire to increase awareness of mental health and write about my own experiences. The album has four key themes; relationships, where you live, mental health and bullying."

Rosie Bans opens withInstincts, a funky pop track with drum grooves by Bren Neil (Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers), exploring the internal dialog about not ignoring the red flags at the start of a new relationship. 

The sultry Home is her love song to Scotland and has a strong folk-pop feel, lifted by the lush layers of Scots fiddler Jack Smedley (Rura). 

I Won’t Fade Into The Shade has shades of Kate Bush with it's story about her being bullied in school for 'being a ginger' followed by the intoxicating Bloodline; blending the Sitar and piano, is a heartfelt ode to her Grandfather who was an immigrant from India.
There are many instruments on the album but, the most impressive is the voice of Rosie Bans as it draws the listener in from first track to last before demanding you hit the replay button and listen all over again. 
Not being averse to a bit of jazzy pop Ralph's playing the lead track Instincts for your listening pleasure on the Radio KC Indie Show this Sunday from 5-7pm so remember to tune in on rkc.noip.me Internet Radio.