Holly Havens has managed to tackle in-depth topics that all revolve around self-reflection, on the way to self-actualization despite themes that make people dive into their thoughts. “Uncanny”, a four-track EP, stays true to her sound of alternative/indie laced with a tinge of country, and it’s great.
Throughout the songs, the tone of her guitar is so profound that the rich, full sound just resonates through your soul. The songwriting and the way everything sounds harmoniously clashes into this beautiful project of Havens’ self-expression, literally putting herself and what’s on her mind out there in the most creative way possible.
Speaking of which, the EP starts with “Just a Ghost”, which right away, gives me that underground, autumn dusk vibe. Maybe it’s because of the mention of ghosts, but the way she made use of them as a metaphor for her demons is quite brilliant, because then she’s able to use lines such as “lost in the cemetery of my mind again”.
“Uncanny”, reportedly, is about growing old essentially. Being unsettled instead of experiencing positive emotions with nostalgia. At this point into listening, I wish I had a list of lyrics for every song in order for an even detailed exploration. The words “As time goes by, I try and lie to myself / Pretend it’s not uncanny” really adds personalization to these songs, especially this one in particular, that makes it relatable for listeners.
There’s something interesting about the third track “Time Traveler”; initially, it reminded me of Taylor Swift. Maybe because of the sound that’s especially more country, or the concept itself. Though, there’s a stark difference between them, of course.
Songs are usually about very real experiences told in three minutes, but Holly Havens told a fictional story about loving someone from a completely different period in time. Most people would leave that idea to actual novels, but as a song, it’s naturally intriguing and unique, which is probably why it’s a personal favorite. The lines “There’s nothing to fear but love” and “Will he still love me / When he hears the news? / That I’m from the future / And I’m leaving soon” are utterly perfect.
Lastly, “Fickle Heart” consists of good guitar bits, bar vibes, and the feeling that this’ll be a good song to perform while wearing a cowboy hat in front of beer-drunks. The lyric “You’re unsure / you’re not what I’m looking for” comprises a sense of authority and certainty from the narrator’s perspective, which is somewhat present in all four songs.
Overall, it’s a well-balanced EP that actually shows a lot of self-awareness of one’s own thoughts and what they want. They’re merely sharing their emotions, but they’re not entirely in trouble. The fingerstyle and the overall arrangement highlights the guitarwork especially, which is admirable.
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About the Author
Kate Clarice Lee is a psychology major in Ateneo de Naga University with a knack for music and writing. She takes interest in playing guitar, poetry, creative writing, and lyrics that—subjectively—hit close to home. Kate mostly enjoys indie, alternative, pop & punk rock music.
