I don’t usually feature music that hasn’t released yet, so when I do you know it’s good. This new EP from Olive Riggio has a sophisticated mix of tracks that will remind listeners of a wide range of influences throughout the late 20th and early 21st centuries. There are some elements of alt rock as well as some more gritty indie elements. Yet the core aspect of the album – and why I support it – is the quality of Riggio’s excellent vocal. Spin the album and hear for yourself.
The opening track “Toy Soldiers” has this unsettling line “I keep dreaming that I’m pregnant but I never see the baby.” What a concept! The whole track has these types of sentiments of both disappointment and deep emotional concern. It’s all juxtaposed beautifully with the quality of Riggio’s vocals. The soaring guitars and dulcet vocals make for a mix that listeners are sure to love.
The second track “Atlas” has a much more atmospheric, ethereal vibe to it. It still highlights the great vocals, but the overall mood is a bit more dreamy. The lighthearted (or is it?) style of “The End of the World” feels almost like a song from a musical theater show. The rhythmic structure is satisfying and the chord progression feels warm, all leading to the sad reality of wanting to leave this world because we’re at the end of it. It’s hard not to relate to the sentiments of this song. It’s an exceptional performance and I hate how much I connect with the sentiments.
“Tropical Depression” has a captivating guitar part and some unique atmospheric guitars to make for a mood that feels more contemporary singer songwriter than the other alt rock tracks on the album. The rapid lyricism makes it feel a bit different (in a good way) compared with the rest of the album. “Pacific” brings a bit more jangle than other songs on the album and consequently is a bit more my speed as a folk guy. The vocal has a 20s jazz panache with a romantic “come be with me” message to it. The song feels timeless and engaging with the type of lyrical hyperbole that makes a good folk song great.
The title track “Eden” finishes the album with a genre-defying song that is absolutely a gem. It shows off Riggio’s outstanding vocal chops as well as anything on the album. Honestly, this might be the lead single for me. The sheer power and control behind the vocal is something spectacular. This is the type of vocal performance that makes me sit up and take notice. I consider it a privilege to have run across Riggio’s music and am looking forward to watching her promising songwriting and singing career.
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