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Acclaimed Sheffield-born singer-songwriter Helen Boulding releases her second album ‘Calling All Angels’ on 16th July 2012. Co-written with and produced by Pete Glenister (Alison Moyet, Kirsty MacColl) the ten tracks take her trademark Joni Mitchell-influence vocal and throw in influences like Bat For Lashes, Sneaker Pimps, Dubstar and the Cardigans to create a more synth-tinged sound.
"Every song would stand up on piano and guitar," says Helen. "The difference between this and [the Youth-produced] first album is that here the production in some ways juxtaposes the classic songs, and somehow makes them particularly emotional & exciting."
And lead single ‘The Innocents’ (Out June 25th) is testament to this: a shimmering slice of grown-up pop, with soaring backing vocals, it’s as brilliant as Sharleen Spiteri guest-vocalling on a Motiv8 classic (remixed, perhaps, by Saint Etienne). "There's nothing between any of us," says Helen. "We were all born innocent and that's who we really are. The song is just about seeing the innocence and child in everyone."
Other highlights, include the dreamy ‘Blown Away,’ about "letting go, making choices & buzzing in the moment," and the beautifully achey ‘Be With Me.’ Many of the tracks are about finding love: the Crowded House-influenced ‘It Might Just Be You’ sees Helen stumbling across "the one"; ‘Great Expectations’ is about acceptance of another person’s character traits, even if you realize that they’re not on your wavelength. And sometimes, "a track’s meaning can mutate," says Helen. ‘Long Time Coming’ was originally about "my relationship with Ryan, but now it feels like it celebrates the birth of my son Jack."
Even more impressive is ‘Jerusalem’, a fast-paced ditty which references the album title, and whose majestic tempo belies its subject matter. "Some people can be so grumpy, for no real reason. Open your eyes and look at what we have," says Helen. ‘Jerusalem’ also features in forthcoming indie flick ‘Comes a Bright Day,’ the debut feature from director Simon Aboud, featuring Craig Roberts (Submarine) and Timothy Spall (Secrets & Lies) and already being tipped as one of most anticipated indie films of the year.
And tucked away in the middle is the album’s masterpiece, ‘Crooked Tooth’, which Helen wrote with Gavin Clark (Clayhill, UNKLE). Its opening little-girl-lost vocal and ponderous plinkety plonk synths blossom into a truly addictive pop gem. ‘Perfect is not always the most attractive,’ laughs Helen, about its subject matter. ‘But the perfect imperfections are, that’s where the substance lies and what makes us fall in love with someone. ‘This one was inspired by my husband Ryan, he has a slightly crooked tooth, but I love it!’
Look out for a regional tour and series of London dates in 2012, as well as festival appearances including Cornbury (30th June), Hop Farm Festival (1st July) and more to be confirmed.
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