written by Lauren Rosier
Forever — the recording project of rising pop star and poet, June Moon — is thrilled to share the release of her brand new EP, Close To The Flame, out now on Cascine. Close To The Flame is the follow-up to 2016’s self-titled EP.
The pop-shoegaze extended play showcases Moon’s vocal range and ethereal vocals on a 6-song set of beautiful pop songs. The opening track, “Blur”, begins with a steady percussion beat before Moon begins singing, “you’re never gonna get her/when she’s out of your sight…”
“Blur” has this head-bopping beat that creates a dark, haunting vibe of the song. The background melody almost has this ‘60s-style psychedelic beat. It’s definitely unique and something I haven’t heard used in a song in a while.
The lead single and second track on the album, “Make It Happen”, which features Just John, is a track that aligns well with today’s indie rock scene, and the melody of an ‘80s pop song. The song opens with a rhythmic staccato beat, and then naturally flows into the song with Just John opening the first verse. He brings sick rhymes and layers them over the staccato beat.
On “Devotion”, Moon chooses a different musical style as she brings in some elements of solid percussion and some unique, rhythmic drum beats.
“Diving Bell Blue” is absolutely one of my favorite tracks on the album. It has this gentle, sweet feel and Moon’s ethereal, feather-like vocals sound perfect. Her tone is warm and almost has this caramel-like feel.
Close To The Flame captures the wonder of love and loss. Moon’s feather-like, whispy vocals whisper confessions about love, personal struggle, and loss through refracting pop and touches of trip-hop, downtempo, and house productions. Those productions are heard on “Brad” with its trip-hop, house, and dance productions; it stands out from the other tracks, but all 6 songs are very cohesive in how they fit together on the EP.
Forever definitely produces some incredible songs between the production, songwriting, and styles. This is an album that you’ll want to put on, turn off the lights, lay down, close your eyes, and relax. Each song has their own style, tone, and vibe; but each cohesively fit together on Close To The Flame to create a 6-song set of songs that challenge her musically and emotionally.
