Over the last few years Liv May Younger has gained quite a reputation as a singer in theatrical productions (such as MTG’s Spamalot), in bands (she was a part of a formative version of The Nightmares) and doing the solo pubs, bars and restaurant circuit, but now she has, for the first time, recorded and released her own music with debut single, Red.
A slinky guitar line and a great dance pop beat, that got my toes tapping and head nodding right away, start things off before Liv’s voice comes in and really is the star here.
At first she comes across as a fairly typical pop vocalist, but it isn’t long before an irreverent wrinkle is added that brought to mind the likes of Kate Nash and Lily Allen.
This throws the more ‘straight’ sections into relief and reveals an intentional edge and attitude to the whole delivery which brings a freshness to the song.
This is backed up by the subject of the lyrics that is exceptionally pointed and topical, while also being (unfortunately) rather relevant to many young women, but Liv takes that and brings a strong and empowering message to proceedings which serves to elevate it beyond the usual ‘pop music’ kind of concerns.
The song is produced within an inch of its life, but in this case that’s just what it needs with the team at Apocalypse Studios having done a great job, added to which the backing band, comprised of the same team, adds an extra power which elevates it above much of the disposable pop that does the rounds.
Along with the single comes a video that is equally well produced and captures the mood and intention of the song while really showcasing Liv like a star.
This all combines to make Red a standout release that could easily have been something slight but has depth and rewards multiple listens, while being something that could easily fit in on mainstream radio or get a live audience bouncing.
Tommy Girard 
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