Capt.Lovelace

Born in France’s Arcachon Bay before moving to Norway and ultimately ending up in England, Beatrice Wood is a well-travelled artist who has carved out a stirring sound for herself under the alias of Capt.Lovelace. She recently dropped her debut EP, Preview Pane, which features five tracks that were conceived and composed over five years. Each one tells a story and with content ranging from tales of secret S & M fantasies to accounts of train trips through Portugal, there’s a lot of lyrical diversity displayed throughout the record.

Opening number “Banana Hammock” sails in on upbeat acoustic guitars that arrest ahead of the vibrant vocals of the verse. It stays speedy and energetic as it drifts gently forward and exhibits an enthralling electronic undertone in the middle. It all gets the compilation off to a bright beginning ahead of the subtle and sanguine start of “Beyond the Pale”. There’s an unconcerned attitude about the light and lackadaisical riff that skips along behind this song’s relaxing refrain. This allows it to have an easing effect as it trots tranquilly to a calm conclusion.

“Out of Time” is another nonchalant number, made up of moving music and hushed harmonies. The delivery continues to be eloquent and uplifting, ensuring a consistently absorbing auditory experience. “Railroad” is a more animated entry afterwards, featuring some very vivid vocals and exciting acoustic guitars. Its catchy chorus is complemented by its enthusiastic instrumentation. “You Will” follows with a festive feel that’s brought on by the cheery chimes of its introduction. These team up with a wonderfully warm riff and happy harmony to put a pleasant cap on the proceedings.

This heartfelt folk foray by Capt.Lovelace is a truly charming undertaking. Its merry melodies rest extremely easy on the ears along with its sunny and simple instrumentation, allowing for an engrossing listen. The whole thing bears a universally accessible quality, meaning that it’s likely to appeal to an immense audience. - Pure M

Capt. Lovelace is Beatrice Wood from Archanon Bay in France via Norway and Bordeaux who now resides in Brighton. She sings five songs here on Damnably's first foray into the world of cassette releases. These are quite lovely, melancholy tunes which Beatrice sings over fairly stripped-bare and delicate folk arrangements and it's all characterised by her French accent that you can detect every now and then in her sweet-sounding and airy vocals. Lyrically, things are pretty interesting too with S&M cropping up in "Banana Hammock". Very nice - ideal late night and Sunday listening for me lately. - Collective Zine