Låpsley - Understudy

‘Understudy’ is Låpsley’s cup of tea effect; steamy, warm notes sit comfortably with simplicity of structure, bitter-sweet sentiments blend their way evenly throughout. Like a good brew, its reassuring tones drown out the drabness of 21st century life, reality banished beneath Låpsley’s soothing lullabies. Whether it’s the fragrant ‘Falling Short’ or the candied ‘Brownlow,’ the vivacious ‘8896’ or forthright ‘Dancing,’ ‘Understudy’s’ mélange of flavours provides an antidote to all affections. But it’s ‘Understudy’s’ finesse that proves most astounding; there are no frills, here. Fletcher is a master of blank space, using it in perfect measure with her pervasive vocals and delicate instrumentation; no bar feels too sparse and no chorus is left too bland. Some might see it as a discredit, constantly referring back to Låpsley’s elementary status. If anything, though, it should be a gesture towards things to come; from pitch shifting to spotless synths, ‘Understudy’ is an EP constructed with confidence and exactitude – who knows what she could come up with next.

Tags: Låpsley, Reviews, EP Reviews