May appeal to housewives.
'Circling' is the debut single from London-based duo Ellenby. Vocalist Liz Young and multi-instrumentalist Ben Goddard are not strictly speaking newcomers to the music scene however, having performed live together extensively and having already had airplay on Radio 2. Their press company assert that Ellenby are 'breaking the barriers between folk, rock and pop', although whether those are barriers that deserve, or even need, to be broken, is of course a matter of opinion.
Title track 'Circling' begins as it later continues – with a strong folk sound, complete with harmonicas. Liz Young's vocals soon begin, singing lines that tell of a search for something or someone, although any feeling of yearning generated is instantly lost due to the relentless pace of the music. Towards the end of the song there exists a quieter section, but even the emotional landscape of this feels barren, due mainly to the fact that it is at exactly the same annoyingly high pitch as the rest of the track. Although Ms. Young has a good voice it isn't showcased well in 'Circling', and nor is Mr. Goddard's instrumental ability; simply due to there not being enough variation in the sound and thus the song becoming repetitive and annoying.
B-Side 'All You Need To Know - Acoustic' is a little easier on the ear, lacking the continual whine of the former track's high pitched instrumental section. Liz Young's vocals are given a chance to shine here; and although it is apparent that she has a pop voice Simon Cowell would love it doesn't seem too unsuited to the slight folk edge given by the track's choice of instrument and rhythm. Towards the end of the song there is a shaky moment when the harmonica once again puts in an appearance, but overall it is a much better realised track than the former.
As a single, 'Circling' is unlikely to appeal to anyone besides middle-aged pop fans who enjoyed 'Riverdance'. As a band, Ellenby are not without talent, and could be capable of producing some heartfelt ballads, if only they'd throw away that harmonica and leave behind their pop influences.