Want It All
Self-Released, 2019
8/10
The moniker of Australian songstress Sophie Klein, on this sophomore album she’s accompanied by Rosie Burgess on bass and Pam Zaharias holding down drums as Little Wise steps into more pop-rock friendly territory with Want It All.
“Devil Off My Back” wastes no time drawing us in with Klein’s soft and elegant vocals, as the music resonates with warm timeless folk tendencies, and “If It Doesn’t Work Like That” follows with a more rugged approach that flows with cautiousness and a touch of alt-rock.
Elsewhere, “Maybe Coming Back For More” finds the songstress getting fuzzy and soulful with a bit of blues thrown in, while “Marrying Kind” brings the pace down to calm, with soft balladry that’s emotive and introspective.
Near the end, “Johanna” glides with a jangly, upbeat tune of melody and power-pop fun, and “Devil’s Reprise” is a quick track of vocal-less ambience. “Mamma” ends the listen acoustic and memorable, with gorgeous folky song craft that’s delivered with much authenticity.
An artist with a really unique approach, Want It All is never short on hooks, and influences as wide as PJ Harvey and Lou Reed are present, as Little Wise hit a career high on this very playful yet thoughtful listen.
Travels well with: Ryan Adams & The Cardinals- Cold Roses; Emmylou Harris- Wrecking Ball