EP Review: Saya Nova

Una Keane is a very impressive singer/songwriter who happens to be a classically trained pianist. This E.P. encases four tracks of wonderfully written, lavishly arranged and vigorously performed songs. Keane's lyrics are poetry on paper but when she sings the words, a transformation occurs. The music from her glittering piano playing, the simple but effective drums with the rusty reverberation of the bass all set a classically mythical tone even before she starts singing.

Comparisons with Joni Mitchell and Tori Amos will quickly come to mind but her similarities with Janis Ian are more exact especially on the title track. The swift tempo of the four tracks gives the E.P. an exciting momentum. This excitement is further exposed on the terrific 'Innuendo' where the backing vocals on the chorus are so addictive that you will be singing along straight away. Keane uses her distinctive vocals cleverly in weaving together lyrics of romanticism and sentimental melancholy with her intimate style. 'Harlequin Queen' stirs with a reserved elegance while also beating with an aching truth:

"And it seems to me/ That all this talk/ Of war and fear and hatred betrayed/ Yeah it seems to be/ That every step along the way/ It's history repeating".

This is an extremely impressive collection of songs from an artist who will go from strength to strength. It's just a shame that this is only an E.P. and not a full album. Buy this CD and add a little flavour to your collection.

by Gareth Maher

In: Musician.ie On: October 16th 2004