Grace Woodroofe - Always Want

Grace Woodroofe  - Five years ago, a handful of song demos from then-16-year-old singer/songwriter found its way into the hand of fellow Aussie Heath Ledger via the actor's sister. Brought by Ledger to L.A., Woodroofe also met folk/rocker Ben Harper who agreed to produce her 2010 debut album utilizing his backing band Relentless 7 in the studio -- the result is a remarkable collection that defies easy stylistic pidgeon-holing // Release: Always Want (January 24, Modular) // Sounds like: An indescribably expressive voice and some moody, quietly powerful songs -- tinged with blues and jazz overtones -- make this a particularly compelling listen..."chanteuse" gets thrown around a lot, but one listen to Woodroofe's smoky, wise-beyond-her-years voice is enough to know that this is not your usual singer (or songwriter)...

Quote: "The way I write is sort of confessional and honest, the same way that blues could be described." What we like: "Astonishing", is how Harper describes Woodroofe, a word he says he uses "maybe once a decade," and we think he's on to something here...the husky voice that propels the stunning "I've Handled Myself Wrong" makes the most of Harper's intimate production, glistening guitar lines and an insistent backbeat converging for a dark, bluesy dirge..."H.", an homage to Ledger, is as personal as a whispered sigh, chamber folk written as a lost love letter..."Battles" digs a slow groove, content to walllow in a cool funk...

Grace Woodroofe - "I've Handled Myself Wrong" (from Always Want)

Grace Woodroofe - "H." (from Always Want)