Single reviewsThe Other Side Reviews

Little Win – Castles In The Summer (2024)

While singer-songwriter Marianne Fraser is already known for her blend of folk styles with Scottish subtleties, it is now with Little Win that we find a different side to her persona. Exploring the realm of pop, the folk artist brings a new flavour and evolution to her repertoire; however, Little Win is more than something fun bringing new sounds to life. No, Little Win holds a special place in Fraser’s heart and is a unique labour of love. Following a grief-stricken period when she lost her husband to suicide only days after giving birth to her first child, Little Win is the breath of fresh air and humble solace she needed. The latest addition to her discography is the single ‘Castles In The Summer’.

This might be my introduction to Fraser, but she is already turning heads as Little Win. Following the critically acclaimed ‘Make Believe’ and ‘Call My Driver’, ‘Castles In The Summer’ is her first step into 2024. Similar to the last two tracks, the new single has a rock-inspired edginess to the song; moreover, it appears to be harder-hitting than the previous work – oddly enough without being the heaviest of all three songs. I might describe Little Win as a combination of Weezer and Avril Lavigne. The thing is, while strong nostalgic drags of the 1990s/2000s pop-rock break through, Little Win has an impish elegance making her quite unique.

Recorded and produced with JP Reid, ‘Castles In The Summer’ is a harmonic concoction of dynamic drums, searing guitars, bold bass and fairy-like vocals with a slick summery smile vibe. Interestingly, while there is an airiness to the soundscape, ‘Castles In The Summer’ has profound depth in its theme. Little Win explains:

“This single is full of hope and conveys a sense of looking towards the future with an open heart. By making this music and releasing these singles and my upcoming album, I want to show people that if life falls apart for whatever reason, it can absolutely be beautiful again.”


Find out more about Little Win on her Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.


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