Single Review: Missing Pieces

From a young age Madeleine Howard was inspired by female New Zealand artists. Brooke Fraser, Anika Moa and Lorde resonated with her. The influence of these icons is evident in her writing; both of her singles showcase depth, character and meaningful songwriting.

If you don’t yet have a road trip lined up, start planning one now. Howard’s latest single Missing Pieces is an optimistic piece of writing, and its place is with the windows down on the way to a bach. Missing Pieces was inspired by student life, and “trying to figure things out”. Howard captures the essence of student living brilliantly through her lyrics. The line “I’m cold, I hate these curtains” is a sentiment familiar to anyone who’s experienced flatting in New Zealand. The song is by no means negative; it serves as a time capsule for one of those ‘rite of passage’ life stages.

Howard’s vocal performance on this track is smooth and precise. She delivers her lyrics with a charming nonchalance. She showcases another infectiously catchy chorus, and a driving rhythm section. The single is well produced and arranged with personality. Madeleine Howard is a new name, but certainly one worth following. Missing Pieces is just one of several singles released in anticipation of her debut EP Just Reaching Out.