Foreign Slippers

Oh Death
Izumi Records

As its title suggests, the first release for alt folk singer Foreign Slippers was born out of the experience of death. Its varied subject matter, whether personal, mystical or romantic, are filtered through the lens of this loss.

Gabrielle Froden, as she is otherwise known, has a created a dark treat of a record, which is so laden with poignant beauty and regret that it seems to stir memories from the womb. Released on Izumi Records, Oh Death has earned Foreign Slippers support slots with the likes of Brit nominee Beth Rowley and Duke Special.

Foreign Slipper's sparse sound is warm and uncomplicated, making use of a surprisingly wide a variety of instruments. Her voice recalls the delicate intonations of Emiliana Torrini, or the cool, otherworldly croon of Kate Bush, and at times the soulful textures of Gillian Welch. When gentle nostalgic whisperings give way to searing full-bodied lamentation, you're feeling like you've listened to the musical equivalent of Grey's Anatomy's weepiest episode.

Opener 'Packed the Car' documents a day trip, a hazy, glowing memory of a summer's day culminating in boozy fireside reminiscences between old friends. Title track, 'Oh Death' is transfixing in its melancholic, meditative repetition, nailing you to your seat with a depth of feeling that is, quite simply, uncommon is today's commercially driven music industry.

Sad though her songs often are, they are buoyed by the comfort of friends, with soothing poetry about the-way-things-are, and hopeful hints of the way-things-could-be. Foreign Slipper's first release augurs auspiciously for a future full length that is currently at the mixing stage. We wait in eager anticipation.

Score: 9/10
Download: Packed the Car, Fisherman
For fans of: Emiliana Torrini, Kristin Hersch, Gillian Welch


Buy the EP on the Rough Trade website, iTunes or the Izumi website.