A few weeks ago I attended an EP launch party for my dear friend Grace ahead of the release of her first EP, 'Harbours'.
For those in Cumbria who don’t know Grace, she’s a local singer-songwriter who made waves with her 2020 single 'Two Tone Dragonfly', and has since frequented bars and festivals performing her jam-packed setlist.
On May 13, Carlisle’s The Source came alive with music and people, as people reveled in the incredible tunes of support act Abbie Kenny, accompanied by her guitarist, Bradd.
With a voice inspired by the likes of Holly Humberstone and a tone perfectly suited to belting out some Lily Allen, Abbie provided some super fun songs and proved to be an awesome start to the evening.
Photo of Abbie Kenny at the event. Photo credit: Oli Caig
Next up was Chloe Pinney, a folk artist who accompanied her beautiful self-written songs with some impressive acoustic guitar work.
Chloe’s songs feature stunning, haunting vocals and some gorgeous lyrics about the Lake District, as she shared anecdotes about her life and passion for nature, all on top of gently fingerpicked chords.
Photo of Chloe Pinney at the event. Photo credit: Oli Caig
When Grace got to performing, the night was getting late, yet everyone made sure to give a huge round of applause.
We sang along to some well-loved covers, did somebody say Harry Styles?, and grooved in our seats as Grace belted out her older tunes about love and teenage angst.
Everyone was buzzing to hear the 3 songs on the 'Harbours' EP, and they most certainly did not disappoint.
'Borrowed Time' was a personal favourite, an acoustic song about being seperated by circumstance and being forced to leave due to distance despite still being in love.
Grace took to the electric guitar for 'When You Lie', accompanied by James Maxwell on bass and Nat Carter on drums to provide a funky tune about never changing yourself for someone you fancy.
After all, if you have to change yourself to be liked by someone, maybe they’re not the right someone!
Photo of Grace Price, James Maxwell and Nat Carter at the event. Photo credit: Oli Caig
Finally, we got to hear something completely different to the songs we’d heard prior, a jazzy track called 'June'.
Grace says 'June' is simply a silly love song about finding something new. Again accompanied by her band, 'June' was the perfect mix of soul, jazz and teenage angst.
Overall, The Source hosted a great night of local talent, and Grace was a credit to Cumbria, as per usual. 'Harbours' is set to be released at the end of May, so keep your eyes peeled- she’s one to watch!
If you liked the sound of any of the artists mentioned in this article, let them know:
You can catch Chloe Pinney performing at local festival Eskfest, and Grace Price performing at Kendal Calling. Or check them out online- @graceprice_music @thecaptainsdaughtermusic @abbiekmusic