After falling for Little Wise’s single “Don’t Hurry Back,” I couldn’t wait to wrap my ears around her album Silver Birch. My expectations were high, but this beautiful collection of folky acoustic songs certainly met them.
The album opens with “Sometimes,” a summery folk-pop number about leaving the negative forces behind and moving forward. The lyrics of “Grab a Hold,” which contain so much wisdom, really resonated with me. The title track “Silver Birch” is an absolute standout. The lyrics which reveal the loss of a father touch on the sadness but also celebrate the strength and wisdom gained from tragedy. “Favourite Song,” featuring guest vocals from Sal Kimber, has such a great groove that reminded me a little of something Rickie Lee Jones might write. The final track “Stairs” is the perfect way to end. This isn’t one of those albums that has big production, but it’s still refreshing to hear what is there stripped away until we’re just left with the gentle strumming of an acoustic guitar and Little Wise’s angelic vocals singing an honest, moving lyric. This is music at its most pure, and it’s a beautiful thing to witness.
Little Wise has a gorgeous voice with such an earthy, authentic quality. I believe her as she tells stories of the people she’s known. Each track is a beautiful snapshot of moments that are personal, yet touch on themes we can all relate to. While this gentle album would make the perfect music for those quiet nights chatting with friends over glasses of red wine, the listening experience becomes so much richer when you tap into the lyrics and really listen to what each song has to say.
Silver Birch is out now. You’ll find it on iTunes, Spotify, and Bandcamp, which has both digital and physical versions. Little Wise is currently touring the country to support its release.
15 November 2016 – House Concert, Nambucca Heads
17 November 2016 – Petersham Bowling Club, Sydney (with Rosie Burgess)
18 November 2016 – Smith’s Alternative, Canberra (with Rosie Burgess)
19 November 2016 – Commonground Festival, Seymour
24 November 2016 – The Bella Union, Melbourne (with Rosie Burgess)
25 November 2016 – Martians Café, Deans Marsh (with Rosie Burgess)
27 November 2016 – The Wheatsheaf, Adelaide (4pm – with Rosie Burgess)
9 December 2016 – Basement Discs, Melbourne (FREE @ 12:45pm)
10 December 2016 – Brookfield Shed, Margate (with Rosie Burgess)
11 December 2016 – Marakoopa Café, Mayberry (2pm with Rosie Burgess)