Washington-based singer/songwriter Lauren Wanamaker touts a stirring folk sound on new EP Rest & Reprieve. The release represents Wanamaker’s first release under her full name, after performing under the stage name WOMAN ALIVE from 2020 to 2022.
“All My Love” opens the EP with a debonair rock quality, showcasing Wanamaker’s confident vocal steadiness amidst a range of acoustic undercurrents and twangy bursts; the latter’s incorporation exudes a driving quality reminiscent of The War on Drugs. The title-touting vocal soaring past the three-minute turn compels in particular, as textured guitars and scorching vocal rising combine for a replay-inducing sequence.
“Like a Dog” is another standout, pursuing a more folk-forward introspection. “Wake me up from the dream I’m in,” Wanamaker sings alongside ghostly acoustics, reminiscent of Joan Baez’ timeless-sounding folk appeal. A beautifully understated acoustical-driven song structure remains consistent throughout, as vocals escalate with spine-tingling effect in the closing minute.
The EP’s title track also enamors with a haunting folk consistency. “Parts of me are born brand new, in rest and reprieve, is there any other way?” artful lyrics question, hypnotizing alongside the trickling acoustics. Concluding with the haunting piano-set balladry of finale “The Other Side,” the Rest & Reprieve EP is a consistently impressive release from Lauren Wanamaker.
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“Like a Dog” is also featured in the genre-based, best-of Spotify compilation Emerging Indie Folk.
We discovered this release via MusoSoup, as part of the artist’s promotional campaign.
