Artwork for “Stellular”, the new album from Rose Elinor Dougall.
Rose Elinor Dougall, “Stellular” (Vermilion)
We’ve made no secret here at thegrindinghalt of our admiration for Rose Elinor Dougall (it’s been mentioned here, and there). It’s embarrassing, really. Except it isn’t, damn it, because she’s just that good.
Dougall’s voice has an effortlessness that’s enthralling. It reminds of singers like Tracey Thorn – ostensibly pop singers, the restraint in the vocals provides an extra dimension/gravitas/oomph (call it what you will) that elevates from the typical boring and overworked pap on the radio (insert music critic diatribe re: “popular” music in 3, 2, yawn…).
Which brings us, then, to her new solo track. “Stellular” – which serves as the title track/lead single to a new album – is a heady, uptempo blend of new wave, Motown and psych that matches the extraterrestrial vibe of the lyrics (and official video, which you can watch below). It’s deserving of a close up – and radio play. Make it so.
“Stellular”, the album, is due in January from Vermilion Records, and is available for preorder from Rough Trade here (in the UK) or on iTunes. In the meantime, Ms. Dougall can be followed on many of the usual points in our collective social ether. She also has a show upcoming at The Victoria in London, if you are fortunate enough to live in the area.
Been I while since I’d heard anything from/by Rose Dougall (aka Rose Elinor Dougall), former Pipette and renderer of many lovely solo tracks – including personal favorites “Another Version of Pop Song” from 2010, and “Start/Stop/Synchro” from 2009.
Now, here comes new single “Take Yourself With You”, posted today on her Facebook page via amazing online journal The Quietus, and the promise of a new full length in 2015. “Take” is 4:00 and change of light as air, shimmeringly glorious sophistipop. Think a more lush, less fey Prefab Sprout or early, pre-clubland Everything But the Girl. Dougall’s voice, which has always had the ability to be light as meringue without being saccharine, is in full bloom. A welcome return.
