Miss Elm - Ice Man

Miss Elm

​Ice Man - single
self-released; 2015

3.8 out of 5

By Ted Rogen
​

Miss Elm is a band comprised of Erin Harrington (vocals/keys/ukulele), James Peeters (drums), Lucinda Bopf (flute/melodica/vocals/synth) and James Lord (bass/guitar) that has come a long way since their inception which wasn’t that long ago. Last year their release HYBRID received Top Album honors and the band is teasing us with a single entitled “Ice Man.”

“Ice Man” is certainly one of the best songs to come from the group and is certainly a track that could be played on repeat. The production is top notch and emits a sense of warmth. Some of this is due to recording quality but there's something about the combination of acoustic guitar, flute and ukulele that gives you the same kind of comfort you feel when sitting next to a bonfire in the winter time. 

I really fell in love with Harrington’s vocals on HYBRID and this song doesn’t disappoint. She is a dynamic vocalist and on this song she goes against the music in some ways. During the verse she finds her own fast rhythm against the music, which reminded me of “Dear Prudence” by The Beatles. She sings, “Gotta catch that boat, find that house, play the perfect cat and mouse oh keep it together / Gotta buy that car, gotta work that job, play the perfect city slob, don't go insane now.” 

The chorus is catchy and doesn’t overstay its welcome. The band gets in and out fast almost leaving you wanting more. It’s lush and Harrington’s vocal delivery is a bit less hasty. She sounds completely at ease and relaxed when she delivers the lines, “Nobody cares for feelings, only how high, you can reach the ceiling.” One last thing to note is there is a slight reggae vibe that made me bob my head. Anybody else notice that?

Is “Ice Man” going to be a single from an unannounced upcoming EP or LP? I have no idea but I certainly hope so. The use of the ukulele was a new element to the music and I hope to hear more of it in their future releases. “Ice Man” is arguably their most emotionally resonant song. The lyrics and music hit you in a visceral way that may indicate a turning point for Miss Elm. Stay tuned and until then enjoy the hell out of this song.

Tweet