Peggy Sue - Choir of Echoes

Attaching a greater meaning to a piece of art only works if the art keeps to its end of the bargain. Brighton indie get up Peggy Sue has said of their new album ‘Choir of Echoes’ that it is about voices: “Choir of Echoes in an album about singing. About losing your voice and finding it again. Choruses. Duets. Whispers and shouts.” However, throughout the record, the voices of the threesome lack impact. They do not stand up to be counted, but instead sit back, occasionally inaudible, blending too well with the backing of drums, guitar and studio effects.

At times, Rosa Slade and Katy Young allow their voices to take control of the music. And to great effect, as their vocals do have strength. However, they are not exceptional, vary little and are given scant space to breathe, forever smothered by other accompaniments. On tracks like ‘How Heavy The Quiet That Grew Between Your Mouth and Mine’, where the voices take centre stage, Peggy Sue’s sound grabs your attention and interests. However, for much of the album, it is just a myriad of indie-folk noises that sink into the background, fuzzy and mirky.

The record has an air of darkness and tension that would make a perfect host for standout vocals – the music often simmers and builds, offering up a void to be filled, but nothing comes. It seems a mix of songwriting and production consigns ‘Choir of Echoes’ to the pile of not-quites. But from the raw ingredients that can be gleaned from listening to the record, the band’s third studio album (save a film score), a full and proper shake up and refresh would suit Peggy Sue over some tinkering. The band has honourable aims with its vocal intent and concept, but fails to inspire with its content, nor deliver on its promises.