Album Review

Hannah Scott – Still Static EP

• 22nd Feb 2013

This five song EP marks the recording debut of acoustic pop singer Hannah Scott. Having already achieved national radio airplay as well as support slots for Ed Sheeran and Seth Lakeman and an invitation to open for Norah Jones, young Ms Scott clearly has talent. This first release, produced by long-standing collaborator and multi-instrumentalist Stefano Della Casa, now confirms her immense potential with its folky pop feel and fine vocal performances throughout.

One Way Out starts the EP in style, a burst of acoustic guitar heralding the vocals, which come in crystal clear and with just a slight folk lilt to them. The high notes seem effortless as Scott’s voice soars over organ and guitar. It’s an enjoyable track, radio friendly and pleasing, the edge of desperation in the lyrics well displayed in the vocal delivery.

The lead track Still Static comes next, slower and with a complex, layered sound. Piano and cello set the backing for more expansive vocals that take the chorus into mainstream pop territory rather nicely. The lyrics are perhaps a little repetitive but the delivery is lovely, emotional and strong. There is also an acoustic version of the song later in the EP and it makes for an interesting contrast, the simpler backing giving even more space for the vocals to shine.

The pace is slowed even further for Your Lullaby. Hannah Scott’s voice is perfectly suited for this type of piano based song and there is a hint of the vocal power that she possesses. With more poetic lyrics, this is simply a quite beautiful song and the soft, sublime vocal ending is pitch perfect. The closing Days Of Wine is closer to a folk song than the others on this EP, with upbeat guitar and vocals that rise and fall nicely. It works well too, giving a varied feel to the collection.

This is a well crafted EP showing Hannah Scott to be a talented singer with a clear voice and a very good range. Her emotive and textured songwriting is good and the production allows her voice to stand out. I hear that a UK tour is planned to support the EP – and I have a feeling that Hannah Scott is going to sound just as good on stage as she does on this EP.

Venue: Still Static EP
Support Band: Casa Music