Revolution EP (4-track demo) by Little Fish Reviewed By Steve Rudd

Julia Sophie might regard herself as being something of a Little Fish, but she's certainly got a grand talent and huge potential as she swims into the big, bad world of the music industry. Julia is a self-taught British singer-songwriter who has had a hard time of it in her personal life, having had to endure the torment of drug addiction, depression and a debilitating throat condition that could have cut her singing career drastically short if only she'd let it get the better of her.

She's been through all that and thankfully come out the other side, prepared to press on with her life in the best manner she now knows how to: through music, baring her heart and soul as she goes.

She is a frankly breathtaking singer, an awesomely gifted guitarist and an inspirational songwriter to boot. Set to release her debut single in 2006, this 4-track EP is a thrilling showcase of her mighty talents, kicked off by the title track in Revolution. The Little Fish facade that Julia is fronting basically comprises her (on vocals and guitar) and drummer Neil Greenaway. And though these songs are anchored solely by her vocals, her acoustic guitar and his steady-away drum-beats, all elements have been so well mixed and mastered that the net effect is wholesomely vibrant and rock-gilded.

Indeed, her Revolution pits her strong and gritty vocals against a wonderfully lush acoustic guitar melody, and straight away it's clear that this girl has the soaring soul of KT Tunstall running through her veins, as a life-affirming level of emotional sustenance is shot through her original and thoroughly captivating voice.

Clock Face is a slightly faster and rockier track, with an infectious energy and intense vitality dominating the catchy chorus. The poetic grandeur of Ashes, meanwhile, hears Julia passionately sing with Beth Orton's heart-rending vocal versatility, before the mini-masterpiece that is Thirst literally leaves the listener hungry for more, as this beautiful anthem hears her speak of a lonely and fragile heart made for two.

When Julia Sophie sings, the world at large should be prepared to show common courtesy and listen. You'll be hard-pressed to hear a more unforgettable voice in 2006 - and that's a fact. www.littlefishwaves.com

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