Super-babe Juliet Simms is no new-comer in the industry. I first became a fan of hers circa 2007 when she was featured on an All Time Low track "Remembering Sunday" Since then Juliet has accomplished a lot, her most recognizable accomplishment being taking second place on NBC's The Voice. From the Grave is a solo EP that Juliet will be independently releasing on July 15th, 2016. Juliet says that this EP is "a snapshot of finding myself and never giving in."
The EP kicks off with "Get Ready" a really upbeat, power-rock type song that I can't help but relate back to Pat Benatar. It opens the EP with a lot of energy and really sets the tone for the rest of the album. Next comes "Say Hello" which is a song that carries a sassy-swagger with a whole lot of rock. The song touches on being true to yourself and sending out a special fingers for those who think you're any less than you are. "Tidal Wave" offers a nice contrast compared to the rest of the album by taking the album down to a much more mellow note. Don't you worry, she picks it right back up with the next song "My Last Whiskey Tears." This song kicks ass, there's no other more eloquent way to put it. Simms has a grit to her voice that really pins well against the angst the lyrical and instrumental content has. It's an empowering, "fuck the man, I'm an independent woman" power anthem and I am all about it. "Frances" sets the tone back down once again, creating a really raw and powerful moment in the EP. This song touches on some heavy subjects and some very deep seeded emotion and it translates so beautifully into song. Simms says that the story of Kurt Cobain and Courtney Love and her admiration for them as a child inspired her to write poetry as they did and this song is titled after their daughter, Frances Bean. "Phoenix" is a beautiful acoustic ballad that proves that despite the struggle and tribulations faced, Simms still has been able to climb back up and rise from the ashes like a phoenix. There is so much power behind Juliet's voice that shines through in this song. The album closes out with "Found Missing" another breath-taking acoustic ballad from Simms that showcases the impeccable range she has. The song is just Juliet and an acoustic guitar and it really creates a tender and personal feeling, making it an excellent choice as the final song.
This album was a perfect blend of powerful rock numbers and sweet acoustic ballads that really showcase all of the best things about Juliet's voice. My favorite part of the contrast between songs is that it really does showcase the highs and lows, the self-doubt and mistakes and the acceptance and self-love. From the Grave is seemingly flawless from start to finish and Juliet Simms is one kick-ass woman.
Check out the recently released lyric video for "Phoenix" below!