Smitten by Annie Eve’s Wistful Folk [stream]

When Annie Eve sings, we find ourselves hanging on every syllable. Her recently released, self-titled EP of bruised, bemoaning folk music connects and enthralls us with its delicate authenticity. Each of the release’s three songs is so substantial that, upon completing a listen, it’s easy to feel satiated and aware of their weighty significance.

Eve’s music is shrouded in a certain Bon Iver-esque ethereal essence, yet planted firmly in reality thanks to her earthy, slightly raspy voice and mournful lyrics. The Civil Wars-reminiscent “Bodyweight” finds her confused, injured and longing for love lost. A ghostly refrain of  ”I wonder how…I fall for the same old trick” in the background leads to the chorus, “Would you run for me if I called?”

The struggle bleeds into the next and most Bon Iver-like track, featuring an opening line that actually frames the entire EP — “How do you know if what you want is worth it?” Recounting the harshness of confrontation with an audible grimace, she sings, “I go to leave, he grabs my wrist and breaks my fist…” Metaphor or not, “Elvis” is striking and unforgettable for its honesty. By the time “Hunters” plays, Annie Eve is exhausted and regretfully guarded from the trauma. Her gorgeous voice floats in a high range, while  slightly abrasive guitar fuzz and rapid drumming provide the base, both beautiful and interesting in their juxtaposition.

Annie Eve sings the blues in the form of folk songs, and like all good sad music, we’re drawn to its  understanding and empathy. For this reason, her EP is both tragic and endearing, but more than that, it’s just plain beautiful. Listen to “Elvis” above, watch the video for “Bodyweight” below and enjoy!