Country music purists often argue that there is no place for pop in the genre. Of course, this is merely opinion but there has been many an artist who has tried to mix the two genres, creating an end product that sounds incredibly gimmicky, almost validating these arguments. But there has also been many an artist who has successfully managed to play with these two genres. Take Kelsea Ballerini, Taylor Swift and, now, Clara Bond.On her new EP, Out of Towners, Clara blends pop and country effortlessly. There's no gimmicks and there's not one single moment at which it seems as if she's trying to be something that she's not. Whilst she may be leaning closer to pop, there's definite country influences on this four track release, a release that she has stated is 'so close to [her] heart'.
The title track is bittersweet, a track about feeling out of place and like a fish out of water, and was written during Clara's solo trip to the States. The following song, 'Tambourine' is the sort of number that I would expect from the aforementioned country pop powerhouses Ballerini and Swift. It's so elegantly written and beautifully sung and if given the right exposure, could easily be a huge song.
'Love Can't Stay' is a catchy track about a love that just wasn't meant to be, another track written based on her trip to America, and closing number 'Flashbacks' is a stunning conclusion to the EP, a fantastic showcase of a powerful and faultless voice.
All in all, this release is very strong. Definitely an artist to watch out for and definitely worth a purchase.
For more information on Clara visit clarabond.com. Out of Towners is available now.
