Jeez Louise I was not expecting the soulful greatness when I clicked play on Ever Elysian’s double single “Feeling Good” and “House of the Rising Sun”. To say I stopped everything I was doing and just sat in awe is an understatement. I was floored. I was in awe and once I picked my jaw off the floor, I hit replay and was just as blown away.
Ever Elysian is a seven piece band from Brighton and they are betwitching and betwixting listeners and audiences with their captivating sound that is a brilliant and wonderful mix of rock, jazz, and sultry soul. But they are also so much more than that at the same time. There is a wonderful “it” factor about Ever Elysian.
Choosing to cover “Feeling Good” by the iconic and reveired Nina Simone was not only brave, but was a smart choice for them. It showcases their ability to be show stoppers. For once in my life, I can say that a cover song parallels the amazingness of the original. If Nina were alive, I’m sure she would be flabbergasted and honoured by Ever Elysian’s cover. Because, holy shit, it’s amazing.
And it doesn’t stop with “Feeling Good”!
Anya Marsland (lead vocals), Toby Mason (lead guitar), Marie Freiss (bass), Brandown Lawton (drums), Will Hanco (guitars), Lily Balmer (backing vocals), and Zehra Guler (backing vocals) take the classic “House of the Rising Sun” and elevate to such a level that it no longer belongs The Animals. Ever Elysian has made it their own and it’s perfection.
The rich textures of Anya’s vocals are unparalleled. She is a powerhouse to be reckoned with and with the rest of Ever Elysian together, this band just leaves a soul speechless and in awe.
The choice to cover these two great songs only provides further evidence that Ever Elysian is an unstoppable tsunami of boldness and greatness.
