ALBUM REVIEW: Across The Room – Gabrielle Shonk
After some time out, GABRIELLE SHONK, a Canadian singer/songwriter, has just released her second album Across The Room. After many life changes, including signing to a new record label, she has a ‘refreshed creative freedom’, which will likely manifest in some differences in her sound, as well as a new-found confidence. Shonk‘s music can fit into many different genres, but can mainly be described as bedroom pop or acoustic, with some R&B and soul influences. A deeply personal album, Across The Room explores themes of anxiety, self-esteem and relationships, and will likely resonate with many people.
Opening the album is How We Used To Be, an intensely beautiful but sad piano ballad. It’s difficult not to fall in love with Shonk‘s vocals immediately, which sound gentle to begin with and then slowly build in strength as the track goes on. While it sounds calming, the lyrics are sincere and a little bit heart-breaking. Layered vocals and quiet humming, along with deep percussion round off the song, and Across The Room is off to a really strong start.
Next is Remember To Breathe, which slightly changes the tone. It feels more R&B, and Shonk‘s voice adapts well to the change. Really showcasing her vocals is Reminds Me Of You, a track which demonstrates the strength in her voice with some little runs that just bring it to the next level. The lyrics are especially well-written here, telling a story that listeners can become invested in. This is also shown in Out Of The Blue, a lighter acoustic song, with hopeful lyrics and rich vocals.
Keeping the album varied is Aftertaste which brings more of a pop sound to the fore with clever imagery and more of an attitude in Shonk‘s voice. Because this album does feel so personal, this song allows a different side of her to be shown and brings in another dimension. The instrumentals here feel quite disjointed and broken up, causing a slightly uncomfortable feel to the song. Bringing the pace back down is Been At This My Whole Life, another deeply honest and melancholy track. Throughout the album, Shonk really connects with the listeners – it’s impossible not to care for her, and this song is a clear example of that.
People Pleaser, the album’s last single, kicks in after a gentle intro and is upbeat and fun, with memorable lyrics and loads of confidence. Ending the album is Quand Le Calme Reviendra, a track sung entirely in French. With intricate guitars and a soothing sound, it rounds off Across The Room nicely. Translating to ‘when calm returns’, it seems fitting.
A deeply heartfelt and varied album, Across The Room feels worth the wait. Shonk can clearly adapt to many different styles, and her voice translates well in all of them. As the album progresses, she seems to grow in confidence and become more self-assured, cleverly portraying an emotional journey.
Rating: 8/10
Across The Room is out now via Arts And Crafts.
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