Sahana Naresh – Shore Out Of Reach (2021)
Combining elements of indie-folk with classical Indian Hindustani, Sahana Naresh finds the balance between contemporary and traditional music in her sound. Born into a musical family, Naresh was constantly surrounded by various musical styles thus it seemed natural that she should embrace music fully later in life. Influenced by acts like Arctic Monkeys, The Strokes, Phoenix and Norah Jones, Naresh aspires to share soulfulness with their listeners. Featured on Indie Dock Music Blog, Amazing Radio, A&R Factory, Savaal Magazine and many more, this talented singer-songwriter is reaching people on an international scale. The latest addition to her repertoire is Shore Out Of Reach.
Opening with ‘Milky Hands’, Naresh introduces us to her soothing vocals and soul-stirring guitar. Reminiscent of Joni Mitchell and Janis Ian, but with some “boppier” quality, Shore Out Of Reach is very intimate. Using a personal narrative in the majority of her songs, Naresh easily connects with listeners enveloping them in a comfortable blanket. Yet, while each track has a languid vibe, the lyricism has a juxtaposing complexity.
Touching on topics from motherhood to living in quarantine, Naresh explores existential truths in this conceptual EP. Once again, the songs may have a soothing folk feel, but there is brutal honesty and grittiness in them. I love ‘Stuck In Quarantine’ for its more melancholic and desperate tone, but then Naresh treats me to her relationship with her child in ‘Milky Hands’ and her “happy place” in ‘Shore Out Of Reach’.
One common feature I hear in each track is the harmonic blend of instruments and rich vocals. Bold and dynamic, but with soft warmth, listening to Naresh’s voice is like a cool breeze across your face on a summer’s day. She hypnotises you with her simplistic style, then leaves you grinning from ear to ear because of her calming effect.
I’ll admit, I was a little wary when opting to review Shore Out Of Reach. I am not a huge fan of folk music, other than Simon & Garfunkel, but I still felt apprehensive. Would I enjoy it? Would I despise it? I am pleased to say that I love it! I love everything about it from the moving melodies, soothing harmonies and charming vocals. Described by Naresh as “…an ode to the fascination and love for the mysteries of the sea and the deep metaphors they inspire.”, this debut EP takes an evocative look at life in all its splendour.
For more from Sahana Naresh check out her official website, Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.
