This week, the BBC are announcing the top five SO2011 nominees in reverse order. At number five, it's Clare Maguire.
And deservedly so - Maguire is certainly high up on my list. The music is all about the voice: a deep, belting voice capable of epic and dramatic proportions. At times it's haunting and vulnerable, at times it's powerful and almost operatic. But it's certainly distinctive - comparisons with Florence Welch are unfounded. Her image is dark and gothic, though this is slightly unintentional: "I always wanted the image to be more seductive and almost pin-up, rather than goth". The video to this track doesn't help, set in a barren, dusty valley, hair and clothes floating around her, face shrouded in mystery. It suits the song though and it's brilliantly produced - simple, but with powerful and beautiful imagery.
Ain't Nobody is her debut single. The poetic, romantic lyrics border on obsession and are dressed up in slick production: deep, electro bass; pounding drums; emotive strings. Together with the vocals, it's a unique and exciting sonority - Clare Maguire is an absolute marvel. Bring on the album Light After Dark.
Still not convinced? Here's a live version for your delectation. I can't recommend it enough.
Still not convinced? Another excellent track, You're Electric, is currently the iTunes free single of the week (but finishes today!). No excuses.
5/5
