With obvious influences of country, blues and roots, the five-track release revolves closely around these sounds.
Hales can write a catchy tune and there is no doubt she has talent, but this first release can be criticised for its lack of imagination.
“Cutting You Loose” is the EP’s standout track, owing much to its bigger production. Hales benefits from the backing vocals and band, as opposed to her other stripped back songs.
With an upbeat, punchy rhythm and electric guitar, it leans closer to the roots genre than the others, which serves her well.
“Turning Point” has a gentler melody and it’s a welcome change to hear Hales hold back on vocals a little. There is a sweetness that shines through, despite the clichéd lyrics, such as “tomorrow’s a brand new day” and rhyming “bad” with “sad”.
The ukulele is a welcome addition in the EP’s closer, “Sand”. Complete with whistling interlude, it fulfils the cute quota and again shines when Hales croons rather than belts it out.
Potential is definitely evident in Emma Hales, though it would be refreshing to hear her step outside of her comfort zone a little more and have some more inventive lyrics when it comes time for a second release.
