Listening to Crash Test, the latest EP from Eora/Sydney singer-songwriter Gia Darcy, I wondered why she’s playing tiny venues while Taylor Swift is selling out arenas. I understand that the Swift juggernaut is bigger than the music, but when I listen to the tunes Gia’s creating I think they’re every bit as good. At the risk of offending the Swifties, they might even be better.
Gia’s got a similar knack for creating vulnerable, relatable pop songs. Like Taylor, her lyrics feel like the most eloquent of diary entries, insightful yet brimming with emotions that sit right on the surface. The bittersweet happiness coupled with the uncertainty that plagues new relationships shines through the incredible opener “Nice Things” and “Make Me Wanna.” She explores heartbreak so powerfully in the title track and the closing number, “In the Next Room.” In amongst the tracks about makeups and breakups, there’s “Next Life.” This is a different kind of love song, one that celebrates platonic love. Listening to this feel-good track made me wonder why more artists don’t write songs about this steady, reliable love. Whatever the case, I’m thrilled Gia has.
Thoughts of Taylor popped into my mind several times while listening to Crash Test. Gia has a similar sweet voice and a comparable knack for lyrics and melody. But while Taylor’s released several albums of varying quality in recent years, Gia understands that sometimes less is more. Unlike those recent Taylor releases, every song on Crash Test is outstanding. Take a listen, then get out to see Gia on her Crash Test tour.
9 October 2024 – House of Strings @ Mumbo Jumbo’s, Darkinjung/Terrigal (FREE)
10 October 2024 – The Hamilton Station, Awabakal/Newcastle (FREE)
11 October 2024 – TBH Friday’s, Towradgi Beach Hotel, Dharawal/Wollongong (FREE)
2 November 2024 – Trocadero Room, Eora/Sydney
Photo credit: renata.jpg