Ed Vallance has truly arrived in America and has done so in more ways than one. Having left his native London, he is now living in Los Angeles. He is busy announcing his arrival by releasing his mini-album The Modern Life on the November 4.
In truth Ed had already marked his future in LA when some of his music was chosen for the Faye Jackson film Lump. He has a marked ability to write instantly engaging songs that have already attracted many supporters. Most notable of these would appear to be folk icon Donovan who says of him, ‘I love his groove, and his vocal attitude’.
There are some sunny California feel good songs on The Modern Life underlining his transcontinental existence of late. The result is a heady mix of Brit pop, meshed with a slight hint of folk, and west coast Psychedelia all wrapped up in a catchy melodic coating.
Despite all these elements coming together the result creates a laid back vibe delivered in his own, soon to be distinctive, vocal style. The Modern Life opens with the melodic “The Deep End” which acts as a satisfying introduction to his style. It is built around open guitar chords, which blend with simple piano, and a touch of reverb. The cleverly constructed lyrics confirm his songwriting potential.
The title track introduces a slight edge and highlights that you simply can’t second guess him. Each track has its own character and life within it. “Echo Hill” sounds pure sixties California, complete with just a hint of “Pleasent Valley Sunday” harmony. It is an ode to California where his love for his new home shines positively.
“Spark Of Life” carries that vibe through nicely, with some jangly guitar, a strident riff, and swirling keys to the fore. “Psychic Radio Songs” takes us to a different, more intense place before ending with a brief hint in its tale of The Beatles “Revolution No. 9”.
The hypnotic “Star” works on every level, creating a trippy atmosphere in the process.
“Silent Sun” sidesteps again with its gentle acoustic and chilled laid-back presentation. “Go” brings it all to an end leaving you with the newly found knowledge that there is plenty more where these songs came from.
On The Modern Life his sound is as fresh and exciting to me as his new surroundings are to him.
Find out more about Ed Vallance on his MySpace Profile page or by visiting his official website.
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