Vanessa Anne Redd – Dark Minds (2020)
Described by Songwriting Magazine as being a “crafty and artful songwriter”, Vanessa Anne Redd is an innovative and highly distinctive artist. Working as a solo artist since the mid-2010s, Redd has embraced the folk-rock genre merging Leonard Cohen-esque introspection with Joni Mitchel intimacy. While she has only a few singles available on Spotify, Redd has received critical acclaim from BBC Radio 6, Radio X, Loud & Quiet, The Clash, Gigslutz and She Makes Music. The latest addition to her repertoire is the charming single ‘Dark Minds’.
Recorded and mixed on an analogue tape at London’s Gizzard Studios, Redd’s ‘Dark Minds’ is a mix of dynamic, yet distorted, guitars, hazy vocals and a wistful ambience. Released via her label Sharp Attack Records, co-owned by long-time collaborator Mark Makarov, the single takes grunge/alternative rock with the traditional folk-rock sound of the 1970s. The first single off her upcoming third solo album, ‘Dark Minds’ lies somewhere between Nick Cave, Hole and No Doubt; however, it also presents the intimacy and soulfulness of Joni Mitchell and Joan Baez.
Touching on elements of wishful thinking in “our dark scorched minds”, ‘Dark Minds’ uses pensive lyricism to enhance the sonically melancholic and nostalgic melody. Yet, while the poignancy of ‘Dark Minds’ is evident, Redd looks at contrasting hopefulness, optimism, sincerity and empowerment showing how “the beauty of darkness will lead us out”.
Bold and powerful, but with a delicate charm and genuineness, ‘Dark Minds’ showcases Vanessa Anne Redd’s versatility and eclecticism as a musician. Before now I had not yet heard of Redd, but I am certainly glad I discovered her and her velvety voice.
For more from Vanessa Anne Redd check out her Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.
