Lacey May’s compositions showed integrity and maturity

The folk rhythm reverberating from the chords introducing Lacey May’s opening song, “Loves Curses”, lulled the pub chatter to a keen attentive hush at this week’s Puma Real Music Wednesdays event at the Bioscope in Jo’burg.

The audience members gathered intimately closer as Candice Armitage, Lacey May’s lead vocalist, shyly opened her mouth to unravel an achingly sweet strand of notes that would charm the evening long after it ended. The singer’s voice brought to life thoughts of a true and inspiring talent as Armitage led the seductively whimsical folk-rock acoustic performance alongside guitarist Kelly Grevler, with able support from David Grevler (bass) and Rob Visser (guitar).

During the evening’s performance, Lacey May’s pop elements were showcased, though masterfully blended with syncopated funk rhythms on songs like “Mr Right” and “Mail Guy”. Armitage, who is also the group’s main songwriter, manages to create a rare balance between popular romantic and philosophising in her lyrics – and Lacey May’s current single, “Back to the Shore”, set fire to an already raging atmosphere.

As the evening wound down, it was clear that the duo treasure the organic nature of their artistic conception, having turned down a recording deal from a well-known label for fear of having their product remodelled into the monotonous pop-duo formula. The integrity and maturity of Lacey May’s compositions and a breathtaking perspective on the increasingly popular folk-pop sound should guarantee this duo success and some influence on South African pop culture in the near future.