Stephanie Manns – Come Closer

A catchy guitar riff kicks off this ten-track debut, digits start unconsciously tapping and a vocal reminiscent of The Pretenders’ Christy Hyde immediately captivates. The radio friendly Follow You with cleverly crafted, if sorrow-tinged, lyrics connects in such an upbeat way it instantly hooks you, ensuring a sing-along to its appealing chorus.

By the end of Follow You, it is obvious that this Glasgow based singer-songwriter has seriously impressive writing and vocal abilities and if the rest of her Americana-Country debut is as remarkable, then Come Closer will be a sheer delight to review.

Second track Ain’t it Funny has an enticing intro and with a repetition of the lyric at the start of each verse, this song bounces along exceptionally well. Glowing with crowd-pleasing backing vocals and Stephanie’s trademark warm and expressive lead, it’s deftly underpinned by her emotive and vulnerable lyrics.

Peeled back ballad Come Closer effectively slows down the pace. With an inquiring and easy vocal style echoing Karen Carpenter, it reveals an intimate platform that showcases some truly memorable and thought-provoking lyrics.

Back to pace, Get Gone does exactly what it says on the tin with powerful lyrics, urgent-strumming guitars and another hooky chorus firmly in place. This delightful song also delivers a splendid higher range, bursting with a true sense of break-up freedom.

Each track on Come Closer is a well crafted gem sparkling with flawless deliveries, heart-warming truths and extraordinary musicality. Highlights include The Way You Want Me To possessing an edgier and more intense vibe and the philosophical All Over, an upbeat ending to a relationship focusing on the good times. 

Reggae-tinged and sun-kissed Daisy Chains happily rounds off her brilliant debut. Whether rhythmic and lively or deeply intimate, this truly gifted artist expresses and engages with originality on every level.

Laura Jorden

Come Closer is released on 1^st March 2014. For further information or to pre-order the album visit Stephanie Manns’s website here.