After an eight-year hiatus, ISQ returns with The Silence is Deafening, a darker, more cinematic album than usual, that marks a bold new chapter for Irene Serra. Blending atmospheric vocals with guitar-led arrangements, the new material pairs intimate storytelling with themes of womanhood, family, identity and resilience, writes Luigia Minichiello.
From the opening track, On Shoulders of Giants, there is an immediate sense of reflection. Inspired by mountain walks, the song evolves into a thoughtful meditation on gratitude and recognising the people who shape our lives. It sets the tone for an album that constantly shifts between deeply personal experiences and broader social commentary.
Serra is warm and engaging between songs, happily explaining the inspiration behind each one. At times, however, the lengthy introductions slow the pace, especially as many of the stories revolve around heartbreak, loss or darker themes. She clearly writes a good break-up song, and Faded explores the emotional impact of a controlling relationship with honesty and conviction.
No Time At All serves as a reminder to cherish time with loved ones, featuring a guitar solo that drifts into unmistakable Dire Straits territory. The band, meanwhile, seize their opportunities to shine. Kindred Spirit, which explores migration and family history, builds to an impressive climax, complete with a polished drum solo that highlights the musicianship on stage.
The latter part of the set revisits earlier material. During Raptures on My Mind (if that’s the correct title), Serra’s isolated vocal passages occasionally evoke Portishead’s Glory Box. Throughout the evening, subtle 1980s-inspired keyboard textures add atmosphere, but musically the set rarely shifts gear. There isn’t enough contrast in tempo or mood, leaving many songs occupying similar emotional territory.
Returning to the new album, Animal explores cultural identity and the changing relationship between mother and daughter with warmth and sincerity, while She Walks Through Fire celebrates female resilience, challenges society’s treatment of older women and calls for greater respect for their voices and wisdom. It feels seasonally appropriate ahead of the witchy season, yet it still lacks the powerful closing punch the evening needs.
There is no questioning Serra’s talent or that of her accomplished band, and the audience, many appearing to be friends, family and loyal supporters, clearly adored every moment. The songs are beautifully performed and undeniably heartfelt, with plenty of worthy social commentary. At times, though, the messages feel a little too earnest, bordering on preachy.
Billed as a contemporary jazz artist, Serra increasingly feels closer to a modern-day Tracy Chapman: part singer-songwriter, part social commentator. I admired the craftsmanship throughout, but despite the impeccable musicianship, I left struggling to remember a single memorable hook.
Thursday 29th October – International Concert Series, Royal Holloway University, Egham
Saturday 7th November – The Folklore Rooms, Brighton (matinee show)
Website: https://www.isqmusic.com/
