REVIEW: Ward Thomas’ Virtual ‘Invitation’ Album Launch

With Coronavirus restrictions still in place, the music industry has been largely changed and album launch events have not escaped the reality of COVID but in trying times artists and industry insiders are coming up with innovative ways to promote records and one of these ways is a virtual launch event.

Streamed live from the stunning Theatre Royal venue, Ward Thomas performed a gorgeous live show with a full band of Billy, Huw, and Gabe who came together to produce a fully formed concert complete with stellar lightning and outstanding sound engineering resulting in a beautiful launch for their new record ‘Invitation’ which drops on October 9th.

The live-stream for music journalists and promoters was put on in place of a face-to-face event which is what normally accompanies a new LP promotional trail but the duo didn’t disappoint as they showcased several songs off the upcoming tracklist which is shaping up to be a phenomenal set of songs.

Kicking off with their current radio single ‘Sweet Time’ the girls delivered a truly mesmerising live vocal as they performed the track to an empty theatre whilst entertaining those watching from home. A breathtaking opening and a real divine taste of what the sonic landscape of the forthcoming project features.

Up next Catherine and Lizzy previewed ‘Don’t Be A Stranger’ which is a funky, hand-clap anthem that pays homage to Lizzy’s long-distance relationship (her partner lives in Africa). Lyrically poignant the track is very modern-day Taylor Swift in terms of production and is a fresh twist on the sound we’re used to from the country-pop pair.

Next was the haunting ballad ‘Dear Me; which was performed entirely acapella shining a light on Ward Thomas’ exquisite vocals as they delivered a gorgeous lyrical story of self-discovery which has been inspired by Catherine learning to stop doubting her life. The track will act as an interlude on the full-length record and is also featured acapella on the tracklist.

Breaking up the new material, the twins sang their soaring cover of Fleetwood Mac’s ‘Landslide’ which will also feature on ‘Invitation’. Accompanied by the soft guitar of Catherine this was a delightful addition to the evening and showcased that they are two of the finest musicians the UK has ever produced.

Closing out with ‘Someday’ which is another song inspired by Lizzy’s relationship the duo performed the funky, emotive driven track with divine harmonies and a luscious string arrangement making it a huge standout of the evening. The song was also confirmed as the next official single off the forthcoming LP which will allow fans the chance to sample yet another genre fusion from the girls as they look to incorporate multiple sonic sounds into their new output.

Ward Thomas have been allowed the luxury of time, and freedom to create a vision for this new body of work that is 100% their own away from major label Sony the Hampshire sisters were able to freely experiment and work on new styles as they finished the album at home whilst in lockdown. Now under the wing of Eastwest alongside their own WTW Music label, the pair have everything they need to put out their most personal record yet.

‘Invitation’ is now available to pre-order ahead of its official October 9th release.

Are you excited for Ward Thomas’ new album next month? Le us know your thoughts across social media and in the comments below!