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Reviewed by Amanda Robinson

Shana Grace: Hello, It’s Me Again EP

Reviewed by Amanda Robinson

Shana Grace: Hello, It’s Me Again EP

As the title purports, Shana Grace’s debut release is conversational in prioritising lyrics over a stripped back acoustic guitar thread throughout the five tracks. The majority of the songs are slow and self-reflective, many lyrics spoken rather than sung. Each feels like a text conversation with a friend after you do something out of character, or a diary entry when you’re not quite sure you can tell anyone. Of course the friend in this case is God and questions of faith abound throughout each track. ‘Hello, It’s Me Again’ is earnest and vulnerable, a one-way conversation that holds out hope for a reply, starting a conversation with someone you want to get to know more. Perhaps the most intimate track is the final Bars. We hear Grace open her mouth before beginning to sing, in all her nervousness and anticipation. She sings of prayer, “I learn to speak and how to listen,” and we can feel the vulnerability in that listening, that waiting. Similar to Jocee Tuck and Lydia Cole, Grace sings about faith rather than solely about Christianity, and creates a relatable way in for those who do not necessarily practice the religion. Instrumentally, this is simple and effective. Grace worked with various musicians to pair her voice with guitar, banjo, slide guitar, organ, piano, violin, and bass. Mixed by contributing musician Jono Annandale, Grace’s production is smooth and subtle. ‘Hello, It’s Me Again’ is a confession without the guilt: a confiding.