Skullcrusher - 'Trace'

We're quite taken by the comfortingly organic, alt-folk sounds of LA based songwriter Skullcrusher (Helen Ballentine), whose latest single 'Trace' excises the traces the darkness left behind by a past relationship and lightens the path for the listener, on a journey of pathos and catharsis.

Taken from Skullcrusher's eponymous debut EP which is out now via Secretly Canadian, 'Trace' is emblematic Skullcrusher's airy yet intense songwriting style, which marries traditional folk instrumentation with contemporary ambient influences. Down to earth, yet distinctly modern, 'Trace' never eschews this particular homespun charm, keeping the listener grounded as Ballentine unflinchingly guides us towards poignant moments of reflection with understated confessional lyricism.

Brief and bittersweet, wholly moving from start to end, 'Trace' is a masterclass in relatable songwriting worthy of such folk greats as Joni Mitchell, we can't wait to hear what's next for this promising artist.

[*'Skullcrusher' photo credit Silken-Weinberg]

Skullcrusher · Trace