★★★★

Reflections is the long-awaited new EP from beloved Northampton local singer-songwriter and classical pianist Billy Lockett. What has long made Lockett stand out for me personally is that he’s never been afraid to be an open book in terms of his struggles; whether it be through navigating the music industry, departures from labels, or personal battles with drugs and romance. Reflections places his story into focus unlike ever before with stunning results.  

‘Wasting Time’ is an incredibly complex and beautiful ballad. An apt opener that suitably showcases Lockett’s ability to understand, interpret and create classical symphonies that perfectly convey the emotions of his lyrics. It is the perfect introduction to the EP and natural progression from his incredible instrumental record ‘Together At Home’. ‘Don’t Mean A Thing’ follows in a similar fashion, a strong emotive ballad that builds to an epic and powerful crescendo. 

‘Begging’ has been teased this week by Lockett as a personal favourite and it’s not hard to see why, an interesting twist in his production as the piano takes a backseat for light flourishes of vocoders, electronic flairs, and drum machines. It’s an evidently different direction that places a focus on the other until now untapped abilities of Lockett. ‘Inbetween’ has a slower, more yearnful pace and is the only time on the EP I myself was yearning for more, especially when sandwiched between two highlights of the collection.

‘Talk’ is a powerful duet between Lockett and fellow singer-songwriter Violet Skies which has had a noticeable impact on radio across her home country of Wales. It’s easy to hear why as Violet Skies beautiful vocal range perfectly compliments Lockett’s lower, raw tone. The pair sync so well it would be a travesty not to hear more collaborations between them. Finally, ‘Silence’ see’s Lockett surprise with a Bastille style Falsetto over a haunting, yet enticing hook. It’s perhaps the boldest and exciting move he takes on the series of tracks, it’s a hit waiting to surface, and I hope it’s indicative of a direction he’s hoping to explore in the future.

Lockett hasn’t had the easiest journey, that’s without a doubt. These last twelve months however have really showcased an incredible, multi-faceted musician. One who is not afraid to take risks, whether that be with utterly heartbreaking and emotive classical instrumentals ‘Together At Home’ or a series of twists and turns that present all of the different musical avenues he has to offer, ‘Reflections’ is a delightful comeback from one of the Midlands most exciting musicians.