Released 14/02/2011
Jagjaguwar home to Okkervil River, Bon Iver, Black Mountain et al release 'Grown Unknown' by newcomer Lia Ices. Album opener 'Love Is Won' is an inviting whisper as Ices' vocals "Oh you know I need your mystic mind" are accompanied by solo piano. Less than a minute in, we start to catch a glimpse at the depths of her album as we find ourselves, all of a sudden, in the midst of a swaying, swaggering downtempo soul, punctuated by bass and drum interplay. Recent shows in the US have seen Lia captivate both critics and audiences alike, with the release of 'Grown Unknown' she is sure to do the same here. Guest vocalist Justin Vernon of Bon Iver appears on the sole duet on the album 'Daphne'. "Rooted in 70s singer-songwriter stylings, this a hugely varied set: the title track starts with a barrage of Missy Elliot-style clapping, 'New Myth' sounds like a mournful colliery band anthem, while the gorgeous 'Daphne' sounds like a folk-rock Fleetwood Mac. Best of all is the soul ballad 'Love Is Won' where Lia's slight, double-tracked voice tugs at the heart strings" Uncut ****
Love Is Won Daphne Little Marriage Bag Of Wind Grown Unknown After Is Always Before Ice Wine Lilac New Myth