Natalie Prass – Natalie Prass
- Written by Kyle McCormick
A first listen to the single, and opening track of her debut album, ‘My Baby Don’t Understand Me’ serves at the very least to affirm Natalie Prass’ status as an endearing songwriter, all personal enjoyment over and above that is a delightful bonus. A gentle piano-vocal introduction builds into a solemn refrain of “Our love is a long goodbye”, setting the precedent of musical tearjerkers accented with beautifully considered instrumentation for the album’s entirety.
Despite completion at a time which must now seem like the distant past, Prass’ self-titled spent many months in logistical purgatory before being released for public consumption and adoration. Appearing as a true musical sweetheart, the endearing and captivating vocals of this songstress weave tales of love and woe throughout, catalysed by an undeniable personal edge and honesty. Meanwhile, the layers of strings, brass, and various other instrumental intricacies assist in elevating this debut to expressively emotive heights.
Whilst ‘Bird Of Prey’ asserts a more determined and positive air than the general melancholy of the record, it maintains the theme of vulnerability as the title suggests as the lyrics describe: “You don’t leave me no choice but to run away/You are a bird of prey/With a heart like the night”. However, the likes of ‘Christy’ see Prass more explicitly and directly bearing tender emotions of insecurity and jealous, highlighted by the flow of strings and sharpness of the harp throughout. This interplay of musical tonality and a defined narrative of melancholy and naivety in love only serves to heighten the record’s overall impact.
‘Violently’ is certainly an album highlight, as wandering guitar melodies set the background for a tale of worry and building angst in the face of adversity of love. Which seems to peak lyrically with the declaration: “I just want to know you violently/I’ve had enough of talking politely”, although this constrained burst of vengeance opens the door for a following musical flourish, as the six minute tapestry is wondrously brought to a close.
Penultimate track ‘Refrain’ serves as a mainly instrumental preparation for the astonishing final track ‘It Is You’ that undeniably inspires images of the enchanting Disney classics of yesteryear. With a suitably royal opening, musical flourishes, an undeniable innocence of narration, even a suitably dramatic bridge section, Prass’ sweet vocals provides enough emotional character to show up Cinderella and new favourite Elsa. Perhaps if the latter had focused on the subtle emotional nuances of the situation, rather than revolt and rejection, maybe things would have gone smoother.
A masterpiece as a whole, Natalie Prass is a winning combination of the emotionally commanding vocal of Prass and the lush but never ostentatious layers of instrumentation with blanket the core of sensitivity that is evident from simply noting the track names (i.e. ‘Your Fool’, ‘Why Don’t You Believe In Me’, ‘Never Over You’, etc.) as well as the general atmosphere of the record. An enviable talent in musical and creative terms, this record of solemn pop tinged with American roots declares the name Natalie Prass will be propelled into a position synonymous with beauty, and nothing less is deserved.