ALBUM REVIEW: Girlpuppy - When I'm Alone
Girlpuppy is the alias of 23 year old Atlanta based singer-songwriter Becca Harvey. "When I'm Alone" is her debut album and follows more than 10 singles which have gained her an impressive 100k of monthly Spotify listens.
"When I'm Alone" is a thing of exquisite beauty. It's filled with soft, gentle lullaby-esque dreamy sounds overlaid with sweet and enchanting vocals. It's understated and relaxing. I felt an enormous sense of calm as the tracks passed by. There are sparkling upbeat moments as well as lower tone more thoughtful offerings. Each track provides a wash of tranquility. It's the type of album that is best enjoyed when you can give it your full focus and let the beautiful sounds consume you.
Starting with the DIY noise of instrumental 'Final Girl' the album slips nicely into the up-tempo vibe of "Wish" with a catchy pop-ish bubblegrunge tone similar to The Beths.
'Teenage Dream' offers some super sweet vocals and a funky sound reminiscent of Suzanne Vega's 'Tom's Diner'. 'Swallow' has a beautifully lo-fi feel, nice jangly guitars coupled and some captivating keys.
'Somewhere' brings the momentum right down for a simple, thoughtful acoustic number with soft, delicate vocals. It's majestically dreamy. 'I Want To Be There' turns up the pace again with its upbeat sparkle while in contrast the melancholic lyrics talk of being unhappy with being yourself. It's the first track with a notable electric riff which is a nice addition to all the cheerful jangle.
'Denver' focuses on her brother moving away, it starts off slow and reflective before glittering it up into an up-tempo track complete with bouncing drums and another cute riff. 'Revenant' is a slow start with scratchy guitars before it picks up into a low key dreamy song with gentle vocals and lovely harmonies.
'Emma Marie' is a beautiful lullaby with lots of twinkling keys and lyrics about Becca's admiration for "Emma Marie" whoever she is! 'Destroyer' is a pretty, mesmerising listen with haunting vocals.
Finishing on a high 'Permanent State' reprises all the sounds on the album. There's dreamy, glittery vocals, lo-fi moments, a haunting melody, up-tempo guitars and contemplative lyrics. It's the perfect way to end an album that's been an absolute joy to review.
I recommend taking 45 minutes out of your day to sit somewhere quiet and let Girlpuppy's stunning voice drift you into a dream like state.