These are sad songs, but great songs, seamlessly created to highlight the trials of life and mental health issues. Southend On Sea band In Earnest, has designed songs worthy of immense praise, songs beautifully crafted, tracks built to transcend and inspire. Lead by couple Sarah Holburn and Tom Eatherton, with brilliant instrumentalist Toby Shaer, the trio abstain from cliches in this world where technology rules and where sincerity seems to be smothered.

Holburn and Eatherton swap and change on these songs. Both are incredible songwriters and vocalists, and it’s a breath of fresh air to hear them sing. The tracks are in depth, not served up as small morsels, but they reach out like hands of faith. They do not drag you in with your bleeding fingers scratching the floor; they ease you into their wonder with subtlety.

Every track means something, every one of them meets expectations, and they all entwine and link together to create stories of synergy. Sadness becomes a common theme here too. Those overbearing feelings seem to linger, but this doesn’t make the EP waste away. It keeps it integral and whole.

The band also explores dreams, the nightmares, the struggle and the hardships of life. Mental health issues are studded into the EP, and it’s gratifying to see a band let their emotions out and let them become one with the atmosphere. Many people keep their emotions and feelings inward, which can cause extreme debilitation.

The EP starts with The Days In Between and Holburn’s smooth, fluent vocals. She sings beautifully, and the backing of soft instrumentals adds technical flair. It’s a sad song, but a great one, highlighting bad dreams. I Feel Alone If I’m Not introduces Eatherton as the vocalist. His voice is powerful, and the guitar sound becomes a technical addition. Again, it’s a sombre note. Humans is a poetic masterclass, describing woes and abandonment. Hands Are Tied  sweetly draws reflections. It is a eye opening track conveying self -deprecation. Holburn sings with expert precision.

In Earnest detail, their struggles vividly on Reasons To Stay Alive. And this trio epitomise immense talent.   

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