This Might Affect You
Shamus, 2025
9/10
Listen to This Might Affect You
The recording moniker of Ilana Zsigmond, as St. Catherine’s Child the transatlantic musician recruits plenty of musicians for this well thought out debut.
The first track, “The Stranger”, allows for Zsigmond’s expressive voice to mesmerize us alongside Dave Ormsby’s gentle drumming in a calm, intimate climate, and “The Other Side Of Twenty Five” follows with Joe Smithson’s warm electric guitar helping illuminate the smooth vocals via the rich delivery.
Further along, “Leave A Light On” uses cozy acoustic guitar and poetic singing thanks to the folk friendly mood, while “Flaming June” recruits Tom Ashbrook’s emotive piano playing that suits Zsigmond’s stirring pipes amid much cautiousness.
Deeper still, the violins, viola and cello of “I’m Not Ready Yet” help make this the album’s best, as Danny Miller’s precise bass complements the melodic atmosphere, and “I Guess That’s What Dying Will Do” exits with a heartfelt and emotional display of forthright song craft.
An effort that turns personal tragedy into timeless art, Zsigmond’s eloquent storytelling and vulnerability is met with a touching folk presence and various influences that draws us in from beginning to end.
Travels well with: Sofia Härdig- Lighthouse Of Glass; Mariam The Believer- Breathing Techniques