Liz Akhavan

The Acoustic EP by Liz Akhavan (Self-released EP)

A solo artist from the Minneapolis area, Liz Akhavan has a thoroughly unique, highly expressive voice that should gain her a good deal of attention. Imagine the whimsical style of Leigh Nash of Sixpence None The Richer mixed with the lush inflections of a Sarah McLachlan, and you are just beginning to envision the earthy vocal presentation of Liz Akhavan.

The Acoustic EP is the perfect showcase for the marvelous versatility of both the artist’s vocals and her stellar lyrical content. The six-song recording opens with the wistful Maybe Romances, a composition of wonder and witticisms that is brilliantly infectious to behold.

Ghost meshes the expressive vocals of Ms. Akhavan with a haunting yet simplistic organ accompaniment with victorious results. Shaking off the past and facing the prospect of a new romance is the subject of the song, and its presentation is absolutely stunning.

Lately is a astonishing song about self reflection and empowerment that really shines in its stark honesty.  And then there’s Loved And Lost, an emotional track that would bring a tear to the eye of even the most discerning of listener.

Two Steps Back is an upbeat track about moving on from a bad situation, complete with passionate vocals that really sparkle and send the material soaring.

Closing out The Acoustic EP is the calming serenity of Lullaby – a moment of sheer magic where Liz’s vocals transcend both time and trends – coming up with a sweet memory of truly classic vocalists from the years gone by. One could close your eyes and imagine a recording star of the 40’s singing this treasure on the radio.

The Acoustic EP is a dazzling introduction to an artist we will surely be hearing a lot more of in the future. A collection of truly inspiring songs that one will want to revisit time and again. The tracks on The Acoustic EP have been produced and co-written by Chase Coy – another talented young artist you should really check into.

(Review by Kenneth Morton)

Liz Akhavan on Myspace