Saint Sister
Where I Should End
[Self Released]
A duo done with atmosfolk, Saint Sister produce an album otherworldly in sound, yet lyrically grounded, on Where Should I End. Morgana MacIntyre and Gemma Doherty’s striking vocals harmonise to create a singular voice, one which recounts vignettes of growth and separation.
They capture universal moments, ones transformed by love and loss from ordinary memories to precious, pivotal life events.
There is vulnerability and delicacy weaved into the sentimental seams of these songs. Narratively strong, the duo captures gently flourishing platonic love on My Brilliant Friend, drunken crushes on Karaoke Song and figures from the past on The Place That I Work.
Envy seeps into First Aid Kit inspired Date Night as MacIntyre and Doherty sing “why are you so fucking happy?…I just want to devastate you.”
Gorgeous orchestration blooms and blossoms throughout the album like those first crashing feelings of love, regret or jealousy that turn you over and over. Saint Sister’s richer sound heightens the emotional resonance particularly on Oh My God, Oh Canada and Manchester Air, laments of immigration and abortion.
The heavily featured harp earns its own track on House 9 with Any Dreams showcasing the duo balancing electronic and organic flawlessly.
An ethereal soundtrack to the everyday, Saint Sister build on Shape of Silence to deliver an album of heart rendering realism.
Words: Sophia McDonald
Listen to Saint Sister on Nialler9’s podcast discussing their new album and the inspirations behind it.
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