Artist: Lauren Tate
Anyone wondering if the well of musical talent has dried up needs to be pointed in the direction of Lauren Tate. Better known for fronting grungesters Hands Off Gretel, this solo work shows just what a prodigious talent Tate is. The vocals are reined in but still cut like a well-honed sword through butter. It’s the song writing and in particular the lyrics that really shine here though. This is a deeply personal and heartfelt record that goes a long way in explaining just what it’s like to have all those feelings that often get ignored. For those who suffer anxiety, feel trapped, are bullied or peer pressured this album will resonate with you. For women who are harassed, groped, cat called and objectified in a million ways this album gives you a voice. Lauren Tate is not so quietly going about revolutionising music and its relationship with women. She is an outstanding talent who is using her ability to stand up and say what has needed to be said for decades. Songs For Sad Girls is a beautifully crafted record, it also happens to be a wake-up call long overdue.
> Gary Trueman