Chelsea Mitchell - "Married in the Aviary"
The debut EP from Philadelphia native Chelsea Mitchell was released last Tuesday, June 4, 2013. Mitchell emerged on the Philadelphia music scene nearly a decade ago. Her style is one that cannot be easily defined. Her music has an honest, folksy quality that is hard to come by in today's music scene. Personally, I have always loved artists like Woody Guthrie and Bob Dylan, who are the epitome of the folk genre. However, Chelsea Mitchell does not resemble either of these musicians. She is in a league of her own.
Joni Mitchell + Neil Young + Joan Baez = Chelsea Mitchell
The best way to put her style into words is a mix between Joni Mitchell, Neil Young, and Joan Baez. Despite that, there are still qualities that are only unique to this album. Imagine Joni Mitchell playing a ukelele. That may be a better description. I think that Mitchell will eventually receive acclaim on a national scale, because you can't deny the immense talent she has.
Her advanced methods of making music are apparent throughout the EP, and are impacted by her classical background. Mitchell once trained to become a singer in the opera, allowing her to communicate with listeners in a way most mainstream singers cannot. Unlike most albums, her songs do not flow together in an intentional fashion. Each song creates a distinctive listening experience. I found this to be very refreshing, as it is a testament to her unique musical style.
The first song on the record, "The Chapel", is a hauntingly beautiful instrumental piece that is so intriguing, it practically forces you to want to listen to the rest of the record. The title track, "Married in the Aviary", is the standout song on the album. It features every characteristic that makes Chelsea Mitchell great. From her honest, moving lyrics, to the ukelele that I love so much; it's all there.
Her folk influence is apparent throughout the entire EP, by the use of purely acoustic instruments and powerful, meaningful lyrics. Mitchell's ability to show variety within her own unique genre is a feat of brilliance. This EP has a refreshing feeling of musical bliss as her sound is like nothing I have ever heard before. I ask all of you to please listen to this short EP because it is a remarkable musical accomplishment.
Top Tracks from "Married in the Aviary"
1) Married in the Aviary
2) Nobody's Daughter
3) Don't Be in Love With Me
I can't end the review without mentioning Peter Joseph, the playing partner of Chelsea Mitchell who accompanies her during live performances by playing a wide variety of instruments. Playing instruments like the banjo, melodica, and guitar, he has played an important role in the current rise of Mitchell's success.
Listen to "Married in the Aviary"
Other Chelsea Mitchell Songs:
As you can see, it doesn't take much for Chelsea Mitchell to show off her extraordinary talent
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