It only seems like yesterday that I was introduced to Northern Souvenirs and their single ‘Niagara Falling’, but this was back in June 2020 and it went on to form the sound of my summer!

Today sees the release of their debut EP, ‘Next Stop’, which features four tracks that will provide you with all you need to know about this country music duo.

All of the songs have been written by the talented twosome, with Lisa MacGregor penning the lyrics and Alex Varey setting music to those words. The collection of songs on the EP have a very intimate feel, having been written about their relationship and their forced time apart in the past. In part, it almost feels like you are intruding in their innermost thoughts but this is an incredible skill to possess as an artist and gives listeners an immediate connection to the music.

Their harmonies are flawless and their voices are very complementary to one another. Paired with the beautiful arrangements, there is little that can be faulted about this EP, apart from occasional similarities between numbers.

There are a handful of brilliant British duos who are making waves on the country music scene such as The Shires, Ward Thomas, Gasoline & Matches and with this EP, Northern Souvenirs feel like they are building up to a breakthrough in the genre alongside these brilliant artists.

Whilst ‘Niagara Falling’ is still the stand out track, there is a great deal to enjoy and I can’t wait for a full album release.

**** Four stars

Reviewed by: Jenny Ell

To listen to ‘Next Stop’, please click here and follow Northern Souvenirs on social media at @nsouvenirsuk.