Ellie Irwin - “Understudy”

Photo by Haley Mae

Boston-based singer-songwriter Ellie Irwin is back on the blog with the delightfully melancholic sounds of “Understudy.”

Irwin doesn’t waste anyone’s time with this one and the first thing to enter your ears is her remarkably delicate voice. The universe has gifted her with a raw and authentic prowess that coincidentally completely nails our niche, conjuring the energy of artists such as Laura Elliott, Shallow Alcove, and Gracie Abrams.

Beneath Irwin’s sparkling vocal performance, the shimmering chords of a guitar set “Understudy” alight, beckoning the eventual arrival of a barebones rhythm section. A deep kick provides the arrangement with a heartbeat, while some notes from the bass anchor the production to the floor.

The emergence of the chorus makes way for Irwin’s upper register, as well as some astounding layers of auxiliary vocals that provide an ethereal expansion to the soundscape. Whether doubles or harmonies, the hook has most assuredly been favored in a manner that will bring you back for multiple listens.

“Understudy” has a firm grasp on many genres– from folk to pop, balancing on the line between rock and adult contemporary; the song is bound to find a home in all of your favorite playlists. We are certain that you will feel the same as soon as you hear it.

Connect with Ellie Irwin: Instagram | Spotify | Soundcloud | TikTok

-HD