Review: Lauren Sherritt
It’s difficult to describe what exactly the phenomenon of Ebony Bones’ music is like, only safe to say that listening to it is an experience like not many others. This is perhaps why the first track on her new album Bone of My Bones begins with a deep, rumbling introduction stating simply that “this is the sounds of Ebony Bones!.” What I can say is that it’s intense, it’s unique, and if for some reason you’re opposed to having a good dance about the house; be careful, because this record is overwhelmingly movement inspiring.
It’s hard to believe that this psychedelic, carnivalesque album was produced mainly by Miss Bones herself in her small London bedroom.
When listening to Bone of My Bones the first thing that’s noticed is the multiple layers involved in each track. Ebony’s lyrics are sung, rapped and spoken, backed by drums, choir-like vocals, tribal chanting, synchronised hand claps and enhanced by trumpets, strings, blaring synth, church bells…this album could very easily cross the line into being all too much. However, it’s the strength and honesty in the lyrics; the message behind the cacophony, which pulls it all together and makes it work in the catchiest way.
Sick of listening to washed out female singers with nothing to say, on Bone of My Bones Ebony aimed to portray life in modern day London in all its aspects. She examines the increasingly cynical and desperate attitude towards love in the just as cynical track “I’m Just You’re Future Ex-Wife”. As one of the quieter tunes on the album, “Guess We’ll Always Have NY” gives a more tender, aching perspective with phrases such as, “Come, take my hand and tell me that you love me/Even if it’s not true,” and “So you’re busy?/Well I’m busy too/Busy shagging someone else to get over you.” On the other hand, there’s nothing quiet or retrospective about the album’s second track, “We Know All About You” which falls nothing short of creepy in its examination of the decrease of privacy and security in an increasingly technological world. The chorus of, “La la la/We know all about you/Yes we do!” followed up with chants of, “What you do/Where you work/Where you live/Who you love,” brings thoughts to mind of Big Brother and best demonstrates Ebony’s talent at creating upbeat, fun songs and yet still incorporating very serious subjects.
Admittedly, Bones’ music might not be for everyone, and is probably not the best choice to rock out at your grandma’s ninetieth without giving prior warning. But it’s catchy, wholly unique and bound to make an impression. Get onto it now, because I can guarantee that we’ll be seeing a lot more of Ebony Bones in the future.