Who needs Brody Dalle when you have Louise Distras?
When we think of some of the most successful and influential female singer-songwriters of recent years, we will often remind ourselves of softly-voiced angels sharing blissful, heart-hugging songs. Be warned now; Louise Distras has arrived to ruthlessly shatter such stereotypes. "Heartstrings on a Hand Grenade" is a bold EP, characterised by brisk guitar strumming and a female voice that brandishes aberrant strength.
Whilst the forcefulness of 'Bullets' may initially shock our senses, Distras appears to slightly rein in the brash nature initially exercised. 'This Is Your Life' may begin with a gentler identity, but the song does not even reach the half-way point before the rasping vocals return and continue to linger for the infectious third track 'Black and Blue'. The whistling used in this EP finale is a delightfully charming touch, vaguely hinting at a contrasting style not too dissimilar to that of Londoners Noah and the Whale. Of course, the brazen vocals always return to remind us that we are most definitely not listening to indie-folk here. Although Distras' current sound is firmly focused on the trusty combination of a voice and a six-string, additional percussion (tambourine/cowbell/hand-claps) are also capably utilized over the course of the three-track EP.
The biggest challenge that Louise Distras is going to face is differentiating herself from the increasingly fierce singer-songwriter competition that brews in the unstable post-Myspace era. However, the Yorkshire-based musician's songs are competently constructed and delivered with astounding power, proving that she possesses the qualities to rise above the average aspiring artist that you tend to see at your local open mic night every week. It is quite conceivable that Distras could become the next Frank Turner, with the missing ingredient at the moment perhaps being the support of a full band. But of course, such things don't just happen overnight and the former Blockades member is clearly not afraid to work hard to ensure that her dreams materialise into reality. Just don't expect this musical seed to instantaneously blossom; allow Distras' talent a little longer to bloom and the outcome could be breathtakingly exciting.