BBC Radio 2 show (DEC 2005) Janice Long [Playing Simple Things on her show]" I think its lovely!"

BBC Derby Website (Online Streamed interview)

Julie Collings is one of Derby's best kept secrets - a dreamy singer-songwriter who's been penning tunes since her early teens. Everyone's rumbling on about James Morrison being discovered in Derby but there's no way he's the last word in talent from this city. Take Julie Collings for example. Beautiful melodies, crystal clear voice, fantastic harmonies - and a worldly wisdom far beyond her 25 years. Taking in influences including Shawn Colvin and Suzanne Vega, Julie has a dreamy, melancholic sound that's earnt her a loyal following and superb live reputation.And with her new album Flotsam receiving a warm critical response, things are going pretty well for Julie at the moment.

Rambles Folk & Roots Magazine - Jo Overfield "I’ve been eagerly awaiting this woman’s debut album for some time now, just like you did when you were a kid waiting for the sweetshop man to get the new jar of cola cubes.   Julie Collings is from Derby, she writes songs and plays the guitar.  She works in a drum shop.  She likes cinnamon flavoured chewing gum.  BBC Radio 2’s Janice Long played her on her show recently.  I saw Julie live last year and her songs were as crisp as they sound recorded, I was impressed.  But can she make a good first album? The answer is yes and ‘good’ just isn’t enough of a description so I’ll continue.  I’m really glad that Julie has decided to incorporate other sounds and instruments into her classic acoustic style.  It makes for a very haunting, dreamlike quality.  ‘All Else’ is the hello track, it’s electronica personified and works brilliantly with her voice, one of my favourites.  ‘Side Eye’ is like a seesaw of sounds, it kicks off then vastly moves into a mellow place but I think this has a great hook, really reminds me of Juliana Hatfield.  ‘Flotsam’ is taken from the demo and having seen this live, it’s a testament to Julie’s voice.  It’s funny, listening to this album; it has a very otherworldly texture making Julie’s material seem timeless.   ‘The Last Post’ is very poignant, awesome use of falsetto; it’s lovely if I can get away with using such a Grandma term.  I was looking forward to the ‘Simple Things’ track, also from the demo, this has top radio potential and I could totally imagine a string quartet behind it in the bridge.  This was the song that made me think that Julie can and will make it, plus it made me book her for an event I run.  The album finishes with the ghostly ‘Follow You’, sounding gospel in parts and quite hypnotic.  Altogether an experimental venture into the mind of Julie’s music, Flotsam is poetic, moving, soulful and all recorded in her spare room.  While the rest of us keep boxes for Ebay in ours."         
 

BBC Radio Derby, Shane O' Connor Interview & Live performance on the show in  September 2005 "Makes you sit up & pay attention.. Absolutely fantastic!...Just blown me away!.....Breathtaking!.......Light's up a room"

Rock n Reel Magazine

"Julie Collings, a Derby-based singer-songwriter debuts with Flotsam, a gently beguiling collection of eleven originals where her atmospheric vocals, tumbling guitar lines and occasional effects push things in the direction of acoustic acid folk. Sporadically it does float off into the ether in its dreamy ambience but her stylish delivery manages to prevent disaster. .."

Janesez (london) Amazon.com customer *****

"Possibly one of the Uk's best kept secrets Flotsam is a superb blend of summery feel-good without the saccharine sameyness of other acoustic singersongwriters . The single "Dont" is amazing at times fragile and at times you want to be washed all over by the sound of this song .A very British album by way of sound and influence but will appeal globally through its excellence . "

very very much worth grabbing a copy sunday mornings or in the car . cant wait to see what she does next

i only write about something if its worth it ..this is

Overplay.com

"Melancholy but never maudlin, it's spellbinding stuff."

Jo Overfield - Sundown

"This is acoustic music at its most effective, with songs so exquisite they find a place inside your head to fit perfectly."

Peter Wyeth " Throughout the album there is always a feeling of being right in the middle of a moment and the arrangement of the songs always reflects this. But to talk about the strength of the songs, the voice and the production isn't enough to describe what I find so satisfying about this record. What Julie has done with Flotsam is to create a record with a real identity and style that is completely of its own and sounds like no one else before her yet remains as instant and as perfect as much of the other music created within the genre of Female Singer Songwriter (nope, I don't like descriptions like that either). With her first long player, I think Julie has made a record every bit as unique and strong as Imogen Heap, Laura Viers , Regina Spektor or any of the modern female solo artists promoted as pushing music forward. Im hoping this record will quietly usher Julie to the front of the crowd, because it really is that good."

Flotsam Reviewed by Stephen Lee Rees "From the first track 'All Else' you begin to feel as if this is a spiritual quest, perhaps for freedom, liberation and self belief...Julie manages to write great lyrics that capture the hearts of those that are either hurting, longing for someone or being inspired. The album is a passage of how Julie's managed to get through the bad times and enjoy the happy times, from the start of meeting someone 'Side Eye' to the tragic but inspirational 'Flotsam'...Flotsam is a vision of where Julie's come from and how she felt about it. Writing with passion and from the heart 'this place it will pull you down' Julie remembers that however hard you swim to get to the top there'll always be someone pulling you down. 'We bob and we dive - we're only doing our best to survive' gives the impression that it doesn't matter how we all get there, the fact is we'll all get there... In 'Don't' it is obvious that she has dark undertones to her and what she, as a solo artist, is about. It's as if Julie's giving advice from being there before and not liking it 'You will find a place to shine' even in 'Simple Things' with it's quirky dark undertones and a soft voice makes Julie Collings all the more unique. The best song on the album is one that everyone can relate to 'Tread Carefully' Julie grabs hold of the direct feelings and tells it how it is, when you've finished with someone that meant a lot, you're not quite ready to move on but you know you must and this is one of those songs that says just that. 'tread carefully - there's pieces of me I'm still looking for' from feeling broken and lost, it's Julie's quest to really find herself but warning others that she's delicate is showcased in this song. This is, perhaps, the best song lyrically written. Penning all the songs herself, Julie has taken out her inner thoughts and feelings and put them to the try, to which, this album represents part of her past. If there is something which makes Julie a unique new artist it's her distinct voice, ability to write great songs - which capture the listener and produce her own debut album. Julie's not afraid to put herself across to others and we get the impression that Julie has only just begun. The overall album isn't just about anger of past relationships, it's about the aftermath and how to deal with it, finding new beginnings, overcoming problems and finding yourself again. It's about looking into the future and going on from here, the adventure's just beginning.

"Gooseflesh, its that good. I actually feel this in my gut!" (Review of Don't from Garageband.com)

Reviewed by: whereswade from St. Paul, Minnesota "oh, so gorgeous. I am in love with your voice. I am entranced by your guitar. my goodness this song is fantastic. Mournful whales, floaty beckonings. I am actually dizzy, it is so good. I can't even concentrate on writing anything - shut up and listen, then. -repeat-repeat-repeat-turn up volume-repeat…
there is absolutely nothing I don't like about this song. This song just hurts, but in a hopeful way.
You found your place to shine in this song, I hope your protagonist has as well. Is it your boyfriend, brother, son, daughter, friend. You own this song, the lyrics are so heartfelt and necessary and beautiful and aching. How does it turn out? I want this song to get you a record deal. I wish I could give you one. This song makes me want to start a record company, just to sign you up. Have you listened to it loud? It just fills your head with sound. Swirling in and out of each ear. .:: BLisS ::. So lonely - sobbing - about to slit wrists when I hear "we all have someone, you have me" tears of true, tempered joy run hot down my cheeks.
beautiful - thank you."

Draw Me In (Review of Simple Things on Garageband.com)

Reviewed by: ybrsongs from Los Angeles, California  "I like this girl. She can play that guitar, boy, and she's got that inner pilot that stays on rhythm. That's half the battle. Now, her voice, you see, well ... she's singin' about some poor schlub that doesn't know the jewel he's got, and that just makes this poor girl hot. Wish I was that guy. Then she could sing to me all the time. Heaven."

Review of the Acoustic EP by Anna C   repeatfanzine "This release does exactly what it says on the tin. Because Julie Collings has indeed created something acoustic. And that's really all there is to it. Which is, in my humble opinion, just lovely; sweet and simple from beginning to end, this is quite frankly a breath of fresh air. From someone that looks a little like Lucy from "The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe". With influences including The Beatles, Joni Mitchell and Nick Drake and sounding not unlike The Sundays or Sheryl Crow at her most mellow, Julie Collings writes gloriously melodic songs that float and rise like bubbles, from the beautifully hopeful "Simple things" to the wistful and gently heartbreaking "The last post", here is what happens when little hands strum, each track almost childlike in how delicate it is. Yes, this much gorgeousness works well with the sun to hug it all better. Which is just what I needed at the time. Great stuff."

(Jo90) repeatfanzine "Julie Collings has made a very good E.P here, there's no doubt about that. With gentle vocals that almost seem haunting at times, they run along with soft neat acoustic guitaring that compliment the vocals very well. This E.P has a very Norah Jones feel, and comparing to Norah Jones C.D's these songs are a lot catchier as well, you find yourself humming opening track 'Simple Things' long after it is finished, which is a rare find in this genre of music. Julie Collings is definitely one to look out for indeed. "

Review of the Acoustic EP in Rambles Cultural Arts Magazine 2/April/05 by Jo Overfield "This is acoustic music at its most effective, with songs so exquisite they find a place inside your head to fit perfectly. Julie Collings is a Derby-based singer-songwriter combining her vocal talents along with her writing and her guitar abilities. Here is a musician who relies on the strength of her gentle vocals and the incredible way she plays her guitar. There is a classical and folk influence here both instrumentally and vocally. The second track, "Tread Carefully," has the definite potential as a pop song but, given its raw acoustic resonance, it refuses to be categorised so easily. Simply fantastic guitar on the opening "Simple Things," Julie's vocals sound nothing short of beautiful. A singer with one of those voices that you can lose yourself in, getting carried away on the strength of the song. The EP ends with a tune called "Flotsam," a song with a sadness that Julie sings with sincerity. Together with her voice and the music, these songs cradle you as you listen. It may sound pretentious but they really are enchanting to hear. Julie's natural acoustic recording with the honesty of her voice and playing creates a serenity that is rare in most musicians around today."

Review of the Acoustic EP From overplay.com feature on the homepage "On paper it looks like Derby singer/songwriter Julie Collings is in a very lonely place. Fragile acoustic strumming, wistful lyrics and a beautifully forlorn vocal should equal frosty isolation. But just when you re about to put your bed socks on, microwave a Vesta curry for one and get stuck into that Bridget Jones box set, the ostensibly lonesome sound weaves a warm enchanting spell and solitude becomes solidarity as you ve realise we ve all been there at some point. "Simple Things," the first of four tracks here, is a brisk, bluesy strumalong that speaks of being attracted to people who are basically bad news. "Every time I look, you re more inviting," sings Julie in a voice that has the porcelain vowels and honest eloquence of Edie Brickell or Jodi Mitchell. The vocal, the pristine production and the understated poppiness all conspire to conjure up conflicting passions at play - suggesting that, even though they left you waiting outside the Odeon for over an hour last week, you can t wait for them to call again. "Tread Carefully" is a more fragile affair as a simple guitar refrain spools out under a subdued vocal. "There s pieces of me I m still looking for" may be a tired and emotional sentiment, but it s perfectly rendered. "The Last Post" ups the ante with an even more acute downbeat charm. The pain of seeing "you there, sat where we used to. Your hand in someone else s," is delivered with the frankness and poignancy of Johnny Cash s stately American Recordings albums. Although you re never sure if she s seen her ex and his new bit of stuff as the result of an accidental meeting or several weeks of dedicated stalking. The final "Flotsam" typifies the over-riding mood of these songs. It talks of us all being isolated in our failure to connect with other people; but the swaying sound and Siren vocal convince you to stop worrying, relax and enjoy it. A bit like the moment when you overcome your nerves and decide to stretch out on one of those big mattresses in the middle of a DFS showroom. Melancholy but never maudlin, it s spellbinding stuff. And considering the success of Stephen Fretwell, Damien Rice and singing squaddie James Blunt, there are plenty of people of people who would eat this stuff up. So let the healing start."

Gig Review (Battersea Barge) by Generous Palmstroke @ London's Lyrical Lounge " Julie Collings was the second performer to take to the stage on that warm and balmy night that was May 27th at the Barge, and she did not disappoint. Julie is a songwriter, as well as a performer, and a lot of her songs stem from personal experience. She describes her songwriting process as “combining simple and evocative melodies with intriguing lyrics”, which calls to mind other prominent female songwriters, such as Tracy Chapman and Sarah McLachlan, whose work brims with passion, honesty and palpable conviction about the immediacy of their experience. Julie’s voice is gentle; it doesn’t confront the audience, it caresses and lulls it into acquiescence. It is subdued, but sometimes a whisper has more power than a shout, and this seems to be the case here. My favourite Julie song of the evening was a cover of The Police’s “Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic”. As she started her personalised rendition of the 1981 classic, she seemed to transform it into an ode to relationship dilemmas, indecisions and lack of initiative: “I resolve to call her up a thousand times a day/And ask her if she'll marry me in some old fashioned way/But my silent fears have gripped me/Long before I reach the phone/Long before my tongue has tripped me/Must I always be alone?”You can receive regular news and information about upcoming performances by the acoustic singer at her website, www.juliecollings.co.uk . Some of Julie’s music is also available for online listening, and the singles “Tread Carefully”, “Lose Yourself” and “Simple Things” are available on CD for fans. The website also contains photographs of the artist and has a section dedicated to future projects and musical collaborations coming our way."

Gig Review from Margi @ The Vic, Derby *supporting BC Camplight 6th March 2006  "First artist on was a lady called Julie Collings, whose dulcet tones immediately grabbed my attention. If I had to compare her voice to someone famous would say possibly a bit of Sarah McLachlan / Sheryl Crow. She has a beautiful voice indeed, teamed with really well written songs that makes you think and boy can she play that guitar!! Julie was like a breath of fresh air and really set a high standard for the rest of the night."

LIVE review from Girls Rock - 2007/ Blush Bar, London

First up was Julie Collings whose dreamy voice held the crowd in rapt attention from the first note to the last strum, the front row sitting on the floor in order to better appreciate the show. Her opening song Side Eye already sounds like a staple for any self-respecting girl's cd collection (her album Flotsam's out now) and the moody version of one of my personal favourites, Blue Moon, really made me smile. Not so much torch song as a smouldering trip up the river. Among the other skillfully penned offerings – one of which appears on the soundtrack of soon-to-be-released film Tomorrow Is Today – she threw in a surprisingly different take on the Police's Every Little Thing She Does is Magic. Her lightness of touch belies a depth of musical talent. She's supporting Horse on the Hebden Bridge leg of her UK tour, and despite this, the bums on floor and the acoustic guitar vibe, her performance was a far cry from a throwback to seventies folk stylings. She's got a contemporary edginess and is just very, very good.