Review | Orla Gartland – Woman On The Internet

Label: New Friends Music

After a series of well received EP’s, it’s time for Dublin-born Orla Gartland to unleash her debut album. Starting with ‘Things That I’ve Learned’, it sees Orla Gartland imparting seemingly hard earned wisdom such as “take up all the space even if you don’t think you earned it” over sparse, clipped percussion and sparing piano. Almost reminiscent of Tori Amos in the style, it swells into a brooding track that has a hypnotic sway. By contrast, second track ‘You’re Not Special Babe’ is a slice of perfect pop indie with multi layered vocals and playful bass lines. The unifying theme here is Orla’s beautiful vocals and lyrics that seem vulnerable but like it’s your best friend talking to you. When she sings “I know you feel like your life is one big mistake, I’m right there on your side” it’s comforting and feels personal.

Tracks such as ‘More Like You’ and ‘Zombie’ carry on that indie pop with infectious energy and a brightness that could make any day seem like summer. ‘Madison’ is a more laid back affair, just Orla, an acoustic guitar, minimal percussion and her gorgeous voice and raw and personal lyrics.

As a debut album, ‘Woman On The Internet’ is a special one. It’s a great beginning for an artist that is capable of drifting between genres, yet remaining firmly grounded. Orla is stamping out her own space by crafting a very recognisable sound, it’s exciting to see where she will go next.