There is a real magic to finding darkness in lighthearted beauty, and Melbourne-based singer-songwriter Vance Joy does just that.
His debut EP God Loves You When You’re Dancing is a gorgeous, stripped back collection of organic life experiences. From the admiration of unique imperfections, to the withering reality of un-retaliated love, Vance Joy communicates the innate emotions of life with a memorable touch of colour.
The release begins with the reflective “Emmylou”, a simple and delicate lullaby made so by the gentle, harmonious vocals. The guitars and keyboards add a sense of unease, a quiet darkness that slithers in between the lyrics, building momentum and provoking an uncertainty amongst relaxation.
The minimalistic “Snaggletooth” celebrates the notion that love is about seeing an imperfect person perfectly. Accompanied only by his trusty ukulele, the troubadour wakens the heart with each careful pluck of the strings.
An alluring idea, it is impossible not to get momentarily swept up in the beautifully written lyrics, making you feel like he is right there serenading you in person.
Adding a sense of fun to the record, the very bright “Riptide” is a merry collaboration of tambourines, ukelele, and upbeat clicking. Extremely uplifting, each instrument is pulled together so neatly, leaving nothing but a clean and simple track to groove to.
Ending the record with a heart-wrenching depiction of loving alone, “From Afar” is a thwack of emotions, right in the chest.
Love Pop?
Get the latest Pop news, features, updates and giveaways straight to your inbox Learn more
Touching base with all lonely hearts out there with his honest lyrics, “I’ve been living on the crumbs of your love/ and I’m starving now”; it’s like putting yourself in the shoes of a lone figure at the climax of heart-wrenching rom-com.
Vance Joy’s EP is simplicity at its most powerful, a memorable collection that is guaranteed to leave you hovering in a moment of clarity, before reality bites once again.
