Ida

After the slight experimentation and spacious Lovers Prayer, this EP is like a crisp sorbet for Ida fans. They still partake in understated harmonies and simple instrumentation but their earnest take on these covers and the two originals make for a delightful little side trip. The best cover is Dolly Parton’s "The Pain of Loving You,” where Elizabeth Mitchell taps her inner country siren with stunning results. John Martyn’s "Road to Ruin” also gets a subtle and respectful treatment while also making one think this could be an Ida original. In terms of the two original songs, they’re quite lovely, but nothing that would demand greater attention than what’s on Lovers Prayer. Really, the title of this EP is incorrect, as it’s when Ida shine light onto their music that it rises above. It’s amazing what a little fun can do.