Lauren Zettler - Shame
Photo by Clay Mallory
Singer/Songwriter, Lauren Zettler has been playing guitar ever since she received a used Epiphone on her 14th birthday. Originally from Indiana, Lauren has began making a name for herself in New York City. She is about to release her first EP, Call Me Out on April 8. Her recipe for music includes rock, folk, and a touch of country.
Lauren’s voice is strong, yet sweet. She can certainly hold her own. Her guitar playing is quite solid and melodic. The two blend beautifully together in her music. They intertwine in a very natural way. Lauren’s songs are tight, and include enough instrumentation to keep you listening. This is the kind of music you’d like to listen to when you have some downtime, but is not boring whatsoever. There is both intensity and sincerity you can hear in her.
Her EP begins with “Call Me Out,” and certainly shows Lauren’s rock side. It’s a safe way to get the listeners attention.
Lauren’s voice is quite dynamic, and goes between rock ‘n roll and country. It definitely grabs your attention, so much so, that it could sometimes be difficult to focus on her guitar playing.
“Shame” mixes up tempos and time signatures, as well as showcases Lauren’s vocal styling. This song gradually builds, rhythmically and instrumentally. There is a moment of intensity, before dying down again, accompanied by haunting ‘oohs and aahs,’ which make this song unforgettable.
”Thank You.” It is more upbeat then her other songs, and certainly allows Lauren’s influence of country music to shine through. The song starts out as if you are listening to it through an old radio, which brilliantly adds to the organic feeling of this track. Her voice gently twangs throughout. This could be the best track on the EP. It’s both a good and bad way to end her album. It leaves me wanting more, but disappoints me knowing that this the end. In any case, it makes me want to check out her live show. I hope we’ll be hearing more from Miss Lauren Zettler soon.
If you’re at SXSW this week, try to make it to Lauren’s show. She’s playing at 10 AM at the Austin Farmer’s Market on Saturday. She’ll also be playing at Baruch’s Performing Arts Center April 4, at 8 pm.
Her EP is available for you to listen to and purchase on her Myspace. Be sure to check out Call Me Out, Over My Head and Thank You.