Leaving university in this day and age can be tough. You put the time in, cram as hard as you can, only to find that you failed to learn the most important lessons; who you are and what you are capable of. What ex -students need is a guide to hold their hand, and lead them through the unknown.
After her own four year study period, Nerina Pallot returned last year to offer such a hand with her aptly titled 'The Graduate'. Upon first listen, the Jersey born singer - songwriter's latest release appears to revise her early soul drenched ballads with a sprinkling of her more commercial material circa 2005.
But, 'The Graduate' is more than just another Nerina Pallot album. It's an exploration of her core emotions and feelings towards finding herself in the world amidst the aftermath of her previous breakthrough album, 'Fires'. Flagship single, 'Real Late Starter' encapsulates Pallot's attitude towards her own stunted growth to musical maturity, set to a cheeky melody. Whereas, the intensely personal 'Coming Home', 'Human' and 'Cigarette' act as sharp reminders that the journey to illumination comes at a price. True Graduation peaks in 'It Starts', where Nerina croons, "Can I lay my head down, will you say. Every little thing's gonna be okay" asserting that after all the work, there has to be hope, and most importantly, illumination!
In a new decade where female characters dominate the music industry, Nerina emerges as 'the graduate'; the truly talented and gifted songwriter that she has always been, only this time more relevant than ever thanks to years of significant experience and studying. Hold tight post-grads, happiness is on its way!
Ben Hawling
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