Ortense Blue
“Hammer & Chisel” from the “Safe to make a sound” EP
Ortense Blue has managed to create a compelling universe with that debut EP, something that is dark yet strangely uplifting, with a sense of poetry and delicate arrangements that are strikingly beautiful.
There is an unrest all over that EP, but that one song, “Hammer & Chisel”, which is about breaking up from a toxic relationship is the most successful in the bitter sweet territory.
With pounding ambient drums and percussion that are driving the song like another motivation to clear out and leave, the many layers of background vocals coming in and out like the many voices in her head, the song feels like an escape in itself… Kudos to the many little parts and ear candies sprinkled here and there (electric guitar, synth, violin) which makes the journey so full of surprises. The melody is totally addictive, and you will find yourself humming it after a couple listen.
I hear a kind of Celtic influence but from someone who would have been influenced by Kate Bush. There’s a modern feel to it that’s really cool.
But of course, it’s Ortense vocal, and background vocals and the quality of her writing that are really making this song work, she’s got that delicate yet compelling voice that totally fits the story telling here. And the last chorus is a festival of swirling vocals that settles finally and leaves you wanting to hear it all again.
Verdict: 5/5 beards
You can buy this song and the EP on Bandcamp: https://ortenseblue.bandcamp.com/album/safe-to-make-a-sound