Cover Photo Courtesy of Olivia Ezechukwu
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Last Wednesday, Atlantic Records showcased their exciting new signee, Charlotte MacInnes, to celebrate the upcoming release of her debut EP, HIGHWATER, which comes out June 26. The five-track EP reflects themes of nature, transformation, and self-discovery. Blending mythical elements with vulnerable lyrics, HIGHWATER embodies MacInnes’ raw talent and vocal range.
Born and raised in Western Australia, MacInnes’ music clearly reflects the experience of growing up in a rural environment surrounded by natural beauty. While drawing inspiration from music legends like Kate Bush and Joni Mitchell, MacInnes has defined her own sound, and it is unlike anything I have heard before.
As MacInnes lit up the stage with her powerful vocals, I could not help but notice how the entire audience was captivated by her dreamy performance. This energy persisted throughout the rest of the night, an indicative marker of her incredible stage presence, something I have seen many artists lack.
One of my favorite moments of the evening was when MacInnes performed her single “Struck.” Inspired by her father’s Scottish roots, the Australian artist incorporates Celtic elements that elicit a magical sensation throughout the single’s chorus:
Bless my beautiful bones to ashes
I'll never be afraid again
Struck by my beating heart
I scream out, death will not be my savior
I'll never be alone again
Struck by my beating heart
When she announced the next song on the setlist would be a cover, I expected her to perform something along the lines of Fleetwood Mac but was surprised when she started to play a rendition of “Saturn,” by SZA. However, MacInnes transformed the song with her dreamy stripped back style, leaving me speechless once again.
I had the privilege of watching MacInnes debut the unreleased tracks on HIGHWATER, including “Down to the River,” “Only Pretend,” and “Beast,” all of which possess their own unique sound while embracing the EP’s cohesive themes.
While the sun beat down on Los Angeles’ skyline, MacInnes stunned the crowd with her enchanting lyrics and ethereal sound. As someone new to MacInnes’ music, her live performance was truly remarkable, exhibiting an undeniable talent destined for stardom.
Don’t miss Charlotte MacInnes’ debut EP, HIGHWATER, out June 26.
