It's an occupational hazard when doing live reviews. That's how you have to look at it. A self made - let's call it handcrafted instead - compact disc finds its way into your hand. You've got to take a listen. It's the decent thing to do.
That's how Caragh Nugent's EP got to the Bluesbunny. Not that she is unfamiliar to these ears but it has been awhile. There are four tracks here to consider so let's take them one by one. Starting things off is a curiously fragile, even melancholy, take on M.I.A.'s "Paper Planes". Then comes "Precious Things" - one her best songs - that comes over all tormented and, dare I say it, jazzy as Ms Nugent shows immaculate phrasing twisting her voice over the minimalist backing. "Motorcycle By The Sea", on the other hand, strays a bit too close to Joni Mitchell for comfort and doesn't really highlight what she can do. Ending with a strong one in "Open Arms" is no surprise, however. With but a piano to keep her company, Ms Nugent emotes an intense ballad that women would quickly adopt as their own.
This EP is also the first recording by Ms Nugent that actually sounds like her which is a good enough reason to lay your hands on a copy. One final question - does the world need another torch singer? Yes it does and I think Caragh Nugent could be a very strong candidate for such a role.