As the story goes, singer-songwriter June Moon (also known as Forever) had just left a terrible relationship and was inspired to write her new EP, Close to the Flame, by a ghost. I’m not sure I can write something that will make you more intrigued by the EP than that, but I’ll give it a whirl.
The opening song, “Blur,” is a Portishead-like groover that details the murder of the woman who would become the aforementioned ghost. It hides a sad story amid bedroom grooves. “Make It Happen” (featuring guest vocals by Just John) is a sharp house cut with Moon’s vocals bouncing around the room like a happy sparrow.
“Devotion” has these cool organ chords throughout it and weird beats that sound like they’re underwater. Speaking of such things, “Diving Bell Blue” has Moon saying goodbye to her ex and assuring herself that “everything is going to be better.”
Moon’s falsetto is nicely matching with synth-bass and chill beats on “Brad.” The ghost at the beginning of Moon’s story has become an angel by the time we reach the closer, “Adonis.” The slow, subtle beats of the track are like the wind pushing the fluffy cloud of Moon’s vocals.
For a record made after a bad relationship ended, this EP sure is lovely – but that’s probably the point. Moon found new life and peace while making it, and she’s kind enough to share it with us.
Keep your mind open.
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