What happens when a classically-trained violinist explores the more twisted neighbourhoods of alternative pop? The work of Erica Nockalls provides the searingly accurate answer. If her albums Imminent Room and EN2 showcased her baby-sweet but barbed worldview, then new set Dark Music From A Warm Place takes that genre-neutral template and drowns it in honey-flavoured acid.

Her songwriting is removed from the pop norm: Emotionally derelict, blunt and melodically unsparing. This album is a tale of release and re-appropriation of oneself, a call of empowerment.

Gritty drum machines, generous synths, cutting tones mixed with unusual violins and glass-sharp vocals: ‘Pesante’ melodies meet modern anthems.

Erica Nockalls’ conservatoire training as a violinist and vocalist are evident, but not defining. She chooses danger and experimentation with her violin, making it a tool of creation, rather than accompaniment.

Blunt. Honest. Generous. There’s a lid boiling on her British reserve.

“Elegant, experimental and atmospheric. Lynchian soundtrack at times. Excellent weirdy noises, wondrous violin and great production. A cracker LP.” – The Shend

Songs:
Mouth Full Of Something – The King Of Want – I Know (feat. Jah Wobble) – Eiffel’s Eye – The Dying Snow – House of Erica – Build Me A Ship – Pearls And A Grin – Making Friends With An Alien

• Digital download: €9,99
• CD: €12,99