Review: Scarlette Fever – The Great Expectations EP
An eerily ambient hand clapping accompaniment paves the way for the Regina Spektor being interrupted by Sheryl Crow vocals, as the expressive Scarlette Fever ponders the meaning of significant others, ‘Hour Of Sunshine (Remix by Cenzo Townsend)’. The versatility of the vocals is celebrated proudly here. They can take on a low-key pleading touch when needed and, then build up to a full frontal pop push when the twinning guitar led and rustling percussion instrumentals increase in volume and heart.
‘Cheatin’ Man (Live Mix By Ashley Howes)’, shows an ability to lean in a more blues country direction, possessing the vocal clarity of a Thea Gilmore. Scarlette Fever bears out her bleeding heart well enough, without appearing too self-pitying. Striding guitar backing and a shattering percussion touch that’s trodden over by a rumbling bass edge sets the scene perfectly, for some reassuringly assertive gospel backing. ‘Good Day (Live Mix by Ash Howes)’ , oozes with peaceful serenity as Fever hovers her vocals to deliver a romance backing ode that coasts along, on top of a trickling key-led instrumental.
In revisiting songs that have raised her profile and stripping them down to bear out the lyrical punch that may have previously, not been fully appreciated. This ranging songstress, ironically, illuminates the point that there is a lot left in this locker and fans will have to keep guessing about her future direction. It could go anyway!
