There are days when you just know that a bowl of Kellog’s Frosties is not going to get you through the day. Something with more substance is required. Something with both high fibre musical substance and a distinct artistic intent. Something like the “Father” EP by Samfire.
I was tempted to just summarise the four songs on this EP as emotionally intense and just leave it at that but I get paid by the word so, as I need to buy food, a closer inspection was indicated and that close inspection proved to be worthwhile. There is little doubt that the art is strong in Samfire with all that is here seemingly seasoned with catharsis almost to the point of being overwrought. Taking it all the way to edge of the pier is, of course, a perfectly valid artistic choice and it has to be said that there is some notable value in considering Samfire’s words with the title track, “Father”, and “Vision” both being possessed of a lyrical strength initially obscured by the inherent drama of her performance.
No doubt about it, the art is strong in Samfire and she duly paints Introspection on a musical canvas with a combination of confidence and theatricality that deserves attention.