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Label
Subliminal Sounds

Produced by
Mattias Gustavsson

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Lisa O Piu - When This Was the Future
Whilst unable to offer anything notably unique to set her aside from other artists within the increasingly popular folk music genre, what Lisa Isaksson does have is an unmistakably raw talent worthy of comparison to artists such as Katie Melua, Eva Cassidy and Tori Amos to name but a few.
Swedish born Isaksson and backing band Piu (who together make up Lisa O Piu – roughly translated as "Lisa and then some") blend together a psychedelic folk pop sound with eerie yet captivating vocals, and emotive lyrics and harmonies that could mend a broken heart.
The quintet's debut release, 'When This Was the Future' is largely formed from endearing ensembles of numerous instruments and percussion that give the album a decidedly organic feel. Filled with an idyllic tranquillity and splendour, it’s the album’s opening trio that prove to be the highlights. From the lively, aptly titled ‘Cinammon Sea’ with its overlapping vocal unison and lyrics that appear to focus around diving into a sweetly coloured ocean, to the equally impish ‘Forest Echo’ – a resonant acoustic ballad with some less than discernible lyrics: “Only seven ways to go in searching for the core/Did you see the sign I drew upon the cellar door? Tell you secrets…”.
But it’s the sombre tale of Traitor’ – a winding lament of a lost and undying love, supported by drifting acoustic guitar and lingering flute melodies that confirms ‘When This Was the Future’s beguiling power. And, as Isaksson croons: “One more battle lost before I even knew I was in it”, you’re soon reminded of amiable climes and wind chimes gently blowing against a summer breeze. Lovely stuff.

Reviewed by: Debbie Craxton

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