Belle Blue might not rejoice at me using Avril Lavigne as one of the project’s nostalgic influences. Yet, that’s how the record speaks to me, at least from a vocal standpoint. That’s probably because I spent a chunk of my teenage years listening to the Canadian rocker. You see, ‘Needed You More’ reminds me of that very same blend of youth grittiness and mainstream allure that’s so comforting and rewarding to listen to. Hailing from Brooklyn, Belle Blue’s overall influences are obviously much wider than that, and generally speaking, they do fit the current rock and punk revival.
The likes of Blondie and David Bowie are being thrown around as pillars of Belle’s overarching artistry, and we believe it; such is the deceptive simplicity around ‘Needed You More’. Relatable and welcoming, the record is also quite precise and well-put together, with the right balance of distortions and vocal sleaze driving a bold, fearless lyrical journey. Has anyone already mentioned riot grrrl?
Recommended! Discover ‘Needed You More’ on Spotify and YouTube:
