By Guy Marcham, Music Sub-Editor
Julia Holter's brand of cinematic and ambient indie pop leaves mouths wide open at Bristol's Fiddlers
2018 has certainly been the year of the female singer-songwriter, with albums by the likes of Snail Mail, Gwenno, Lucy Dacus and Cat Power being lauded by critics. However, Julia Holter seems somewhat dethatched from indie rock's growing female singer-songwriter scene. Holter instead forges her own truly unique sound. An expansive tapestry of left-field compositions, tracing elements of baroque pop, indie folk and sprawling orchestral pieces. Her Bristol show was testament to these experimental sensibilities, crafting a magnificent and enchanting set.
Holter begins with an intimate rendition of 'In Gardens' Muteness' of her 2018 album Aviary. The track saw Holter isolated on stage with only her keyboard, drawing attention to her powerful and mesmerising voice. The track made for a poignant and emotionally raw introduction. Holter was then joined by her backing band, which consisted of a wide range of instruments, even including a bagpipe.
Holter's set drew heavily on her latest two albums, both reflecting a different side to her expansive musical pallete. Tracks from 2018's Avairy saw Holter at her most experimental and avant-garde, almost echoing the beautiful harmonies and dense instrumentation of Fleet Foxes' 'Crack Up'. However, tracks from Holter's 2015 album Have You In My Wilderness outlined her more accessible baroque pop influences.
Particular highlights from the evening came from Holter's 2015 album. Early on into proceedings, Holter treated the Bristol crowd to soothing and joyous renditions of 'Silhouette' and 'Feel You'.
However, Holter was at her most powerful when performing her most recent bombastic orchestral arrangements such as 'Whether' and 'Underneath the Moon'. The latter track made for a particularly phenomenal live experience, with the double bass taking centre stage during what can only be described as a cacophony of electronic beats and jazz influenced rhythms. Another live highlight came from 'Les Jeux To You' which after a gentle piano led introduction morphed into an ambient Neutral Milk Hotel-esque tangle of folksy instruments.
Holter brought the evening to a close with 'I Shall Love 2', perhaps one of 2018's best tracks. The combination of sparse electronic instrumentation and Holter's gentle hushed voice made for an awe inspiring and spellbinding finish, even leaving me to have goose bumps across my skin. A wonderfully unique and magnificent gig.
Featured Image: Julia Holter/ Domino Records
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