The phrase 'A voice beyond their years' is a term I seem to hear more and more frequently with newer, younger artists constantly emerging on the music scene. I'm thinking of the Lorde's, Jake Bugg's and so many other younger artists of today. However, this term bears a completely new meaning when it comes to describing the voice of George Ezra. George, a singer/songwriter born and raised in Bristol, is a abrupt reminder of how looks can be so very deceiving. This fresh faced 20 year-old, surprised us all with a beautifully careworn and soulful voice, unconfined to his youthful disposition. Despite the floppy blonde fringe and a pout many boy bands would be proud of, George Ezra has a voice more fitting positioned on a flannel wearing, guitar strumming, middle aged texan man. Definitely not a sound one would automatically connect with a skinny, fresh faced 20 year old from Bristol. Nonetheless, this never seems to draw away from how natural, and let's not forget how remarkable his vocal talent is.

George Ezra cites Bob Dylan and Woody Guthrie as some of his musical influences, and this can be seen through most of his music. George's EP 'Did You Hear the Rain' seems appropriately titled, as the tracks are the perfect 'mooching around inside the house on a rainy day' kind of music. The four-strong collection of folk infused, blues speckled country bliss, George really showcases his vocal ability, and is a sure hit with any fan of the genre. His gravelled voice combined with crooning that has a feeling of warm honey works in a musical friendship, capturing the hearts of even the coldest of critics. Lets face it now, he's hard to fault.


'Budapest' is a stunner for the start of this EP, with my foot subconsciously tapping away at the floor throughout the track. This is paired hand in hand with one of my other favourite tracks 'Benjamin Twine'. These tracks show a definite contrast between the others on the EP, with their upbeat, happier tempos. Moving slowly onward, 'Did You Hear the Rain' presents slightly more gravelled vocals and sinister, threatening lyrics. The track 'Angry Hill' seeps pure grief and lament, without ever having overbearing vocals. George shows an array of musical ability within the EP and I'm sure he has much more planned.

George's EP undoubtedly encompasses everything new and fantastic entering the Country/Folk genre. Whether you like just one track or all of them, i'm sure that your love for George Ezra will grow just as much as mine has.

George is still working on his debut album to be released at a later date, and I have no doubt in my mind that it will be just as good as we're all anticipating.







    Millie x