Breaking away from her acclaimed band Deer Prudence, Mariah McCarthy shows he has what it takes to stand on her own two feet with the release of her solo EP Counting Sheep.
The title track bolts out of the gate, instantly sweeping you up and taking you along for the ride. It’s a driving folk ditty that perfectly encapsulates the frustrations and random thoughts that take hold when sleep eludes us. The single “Hail Mary” already charmed me, and it’s every bit as enchanting when heard in its context on the EP. The following track “At Peace” got me. I’m not sure whether Mariah has lived through losing someone through suicide as I have, but her lyrics took me back to that dark, painful chapter. It’s a real gift to be able to move people with your music that way. I love the gentle treatment and innocence of “Caught in the Rain,” and the next track, “Siren Song,” beautifully expresses those feelings we’ve all had when we just can’t resist someone. The gentle, delicate “Seeking Refuge” draws the listener in. It’s such a gorgeous, intimate number. “1821” is the perfect closer, exploring themes of history and our place in the world.
At seven tracks, perhaps Counting Sheep should be considered a mini-album rather than an EP. I can’t imagine it any shorter though, because every track is a stand-out. Mariah is an artist with so much to say and a charming folk sound that makes what she’s sharing with us a joy to hear.
Counting Sheep is available on May 25. Mariah McCarthy will support its release with the following shows.
26 May 2018 – The Wesley Anne, Melbourne
27 May 2018 – Taproom, Castlemaine
2 June 2018 – Old Church on the Hill, Bendigo
16 June 2018 – Martian’s Cafe, Deans Marsh
17 June 2018 – The Door Gallery Cafe, Geelong
22 June 2018 – The Delatite Hotel, Mansfield
30 June 2018 – Kilmore Celtic Festival, Kilmore
1 July 2018 – Gypsy Bar, Echuca
13 July 2018 – Oscar’s Alehouse, Belgrav