Striking out on her own after two albums and nearly 10 years with Alphastates was a good move for Cat Dowling. The Kilkenny woman's solo debut is probably the best thing she's ever done; not because her former band were flawed, but because she sounds more comfortable unshackled by the limitations of electronic pop. These songs are more organic and consequently warmer, Dowling's evocative, breathy vocals gliding across acoustic pop and seductive piano motifs with a natural grace. There are echoes of Cathy Davey ( Come On ) and Imogen Heap ( Gospel Song ) in parts, but Dowling's influences aren't so easy to pinpoint on Somebody Else 's mix of galloping beats, accordion breakdown and chugging electric guitar. Cat has found her voice with this impressive debut; let's see what she can do next.
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Download: Broken Rules, Somebody Else