Harry Cleverdon Drops Genre-Defying Single, “Counting Sheep”

I never thought I’d be rocking out to a “synth-driven country single”, but here we are. Perhaps it’s because I’ve never really seen Harry Cleverdon as a country artist, no matter what his press releases say. I heard more pop and folk in his last single “Just For a Little While.” With his follow-up “Counting Sheep,” the big anthemic pop-rock vibe is a little more apparent. Whatever you call it, the music is pretty fantastic.

“Counting Sheep is a reflection on the depersonalising effect life can have,” Harry explained. “Losing sleep over build-ups of negativity or even a realisation of a harsh reality can have an interesting effect on our psyche. I wanted to create a piece that sounded happy and fun while talking of sadness and/or depression, of one not feeling like themselves. This juxtaposition would align with that feeling of being overwhelmed with everyday life and needing an escape, all whilst keeping a façade up for people you care for.”

Harry is writing really high-quality music that transcends genre, in my opinion. He might come from the country, but he doesn’t let that define his music. It’s such an exciting blend of influences, and I can’t wait to hear what comes next.

Image used with permission from Rock This Country

“Counting Sheep” – Mariah McCarthy

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