Album Review: Varley – 'Smalltalk & DMCs'
Following 2019’s promising debut EP ‘Phantom Studies’ and a string of exciting singles, indie-pop trio Varley share highly anticipated debut album ‘Smalltalk & DMCs’ -a stunning ode to vulnerability.
As far as debut albums go, ‘Smalltalk & DMCs’ is a hole-in-one. From the moment Claire-Ann’s angelic vocals take the stage on serene opening track ‘Bubble Up’, Varley impress with delicate melodies and attention to detail. Over the course of 13 immaculate tracks, the record paints a well-rounded picture of the band’s extensive sonic palette. Spanning from ‘Push Pull’’s upbeat rhythms and tongue-in-cheek attitude to the haunting acoustics of ‘Married With Bruises’ that chronicles “the absurd and outdated stereotypes of what certain men think a woman should be”, this debut LP seamlessly captures the trio’s eclectic brilliance.
An abundance of hook-heavy choruses and light, breezy soundscapes give ‘Smalltalk & DMCs’ a sunny touch but, though sonically optimistic, lyrically, Varley have mastered the art of perfectly depicting inner turmoil. Whether she’s addressing feelings of self-doubt or social pressures, vocalist Claire-Ann doesn’t shy away from confronting her most difficult experiences. A gorgeous example of this heart-on-sleeve songwriting comes in form of disarming ballad ‘One Two Three’. Wrapped into a veil of fuzzy guitars and slow-moving percussions, Claire-Ann airs feelings of inadequacy triggered by social media: “When did my reflection make me so insecure?” But there’s more to Varley than catharsis. They are decidedly hopeful. Case in point closing track ‘Calypso’; a gentle reminder that everything is going to be okay.
Perfectly balanced and beautifully designed, ‘Smalltalk & DMCs’ combines all the best of Varley: infectious melodies and poignant lyricism guided by a distinctive air of hope. If you’re looking for a brand of music that is in equal measures sentimental and uplifting, this trio is the one for you.
Words by Laura Freyaldenhoven