The 411 Magazine The 411 Magazine issue 4 July/Aug 2017 | Page 11

New Music REVIEWS Album: Kate Ellis Carve Me Out     Kate Ellis is an Americana singer-songwriter, who was born in Louisiana, grew up in New York and now based in London.  'Carve Me Out', her latest album, out now, has influences of the singer-songwriters she adores from Gram Parsons and Gillian Welch, to Mary Chapin Carpenter, Leonard Cohen and Nanci Griffith.       Firmly rooted in folk with a hint of country, Kate's heartfelt, smokey, lilting vocals have shades of Thea Gilmore, which take you by the hand into another world of beauty and tranquillity.  'Carve Me Out' is an album of genuine songwriter's songs, which will have you reaching for the repeat button at the end of a long weary day.  Available to buy now from www.amazon.co.uk on CD and from iTunes for download. Facebook: /kateellismusic. Twitter: @kateellismusic Album: T BELL X1 ARMS     'ARMS' is the band's seventh studio album and follow-up to 2013’s acclaimed 'Chop Chop' (their third #1 album on the Irish Album Charts). Singer Paul Noone describes it as being about humankind’s desire to seek comfort in the familiar during times of hardship.  With reminders of Keane and Elbow, haunting melodies and deeply thoughtful lyrics, BELL X1's latest effort will leave you in a reflective state of mind.       Catch the band out on tour supporting Tori Amos throughout the UK in September. 'ARMS' is released in the UK on 21st July.  Facebook: /bellx1.  Twitter: @BellX1 EP: Two Ways Home Closest Stranger     Two Ways Home are alt-country, London-based duo Isabella Mariee and Lewis Fowler.  Their third EP, ‘Closest Stranger’ features four brand new songs, including co-writes with Logan Brill, Demi Marriner and Adam James. In their own words: “We are so excited for people to hear the new EP...It’s a true collaboration of London and Nashville.”     Enriched with glorious harmonies, highlighted by Isabella Mariee's breathy, gentle tones, 'Closest Stranger' is a must listen.  We're fans! Please Sir, Madam, can we have some more?! The EP is available to download now from iTunes. Facebook: /twowayshome. Twitter: @TwoWaysHome 11