If there was ever a time that I wanted to add an entire album to our playlists, this is it. Full disclosure - I've been a fan of Made Escape since the first time I saw Emily play and I have heard almost all of these songs before in a live context. She has a wit in her lyrics that appeal to my sense of humour, and every track has been so well crafted by the producers she's worked with to bring her personality to each one. From the simple, demo style production of 'Forgetful Interlude' (if you want an idea of Emily's sense of humour, this track provides it in swathes) to the full sounding 'Missing Man' (Bond theme, anyone?), this album is full of the best and boldest songs, presented in a way that gives you an insight into so many facets of Emily's mind. Her desire for love, her love of nature, her ability to take a very small piece of inspiration and turn it into a whole story in song ('Chicken', 'Stained Glass'), and her utter humility in sharing this music with the world without an agenda except to share what she no longer considers to belong to her. There are moments where Emily's vocal shines so brightly - in particular the last words of track one give me goosebumps with that breathy tone coming through up close to the mic, and there are some excellent vocal runs in '(It's a Flower)' - also a song that makes me smile as the song title answers the question any listener might have. If you listen, you'll understand! As a body of work, this entire album is cohesive and although each track has its own merits, I would recommend listening through from beginning to end, absorbing yourself in the stories and the emotions. Please do not allow this one to pass you by. I promise, it's worth your time.
Listen to '(It's a Flower)' and other great songs on our Best Songs in the World playlist: