Artists make music for a multitude of reasons. For some, it is pure technical excitement. For others, it is a way to describe reality and the experience of life, privileging a strong lyrical approach over an instrumental one. For singer and songwriter Raven Shelley, music was always the medium through which she could blend her passion for poetry and English literature with her melodic prowess. The results are wonderful: debuting earlier this year with ‘Sink in Solitude’, Shelley showcased her ability to create poignant, evocative gems, her vocals being the main attraction.
The Peak District-based talent is now returning with a follow-up, the folk-infused jewel ‘Do You Miss Me Yet?’. There’s something peculiar in it: perhaps it’s Shelley’s intimate yet strong vocal delivery, gently leaving traces of her kaleidoscopic storytelling. Approaching themes of personal growth and relationship challenges, the song will instantly connect with the listener, laying a path of self-discovery and self-redemption.
Introduced by a fuzzy acoustic guitar, the record quickly highlights the friendly tone of the French-born singer, soon joined by mellow pianos and mesmerising soundscapes. Eventually, drums kick in, and we begin a journey into the artist’s unique folk-pop sonic universe. It works! Circling back on the inspiration behind her material, Shelley explains: “all the hurt, all the anger, all the love, everything that runs through me can be found somewhere in my lyrics, because to write something real, you have to pour yourself onto the page and into the songs”.
Recommended! Discover ‘Do You Miss Me Yet?’ on Spotify:
