By Graeme Smith

Opening with its title track, Now, we get an instant taste of the stripped-back style that’s present across the EP’s three tracks. The style leads us to focus on the compelling vocals and their emotional lyrics. They combine the simplicity of pop with the authenticity of honest feelings. It’s an inviting combination.

Not This Time is a particularly poignant moment that speaks to finding out a former lover has moved on when you haven’t quite got over them yourself. It’s melody in its chorus makes it memorable.

Know Better completes the trio with a feisty finish. The lyrics call out dishonesty with genuine indignation, delivered as always with passion.

Toronto, Canada-based Ally Cribb’s music has been appearing on our blog since 2022. The original Now EP graced our pages in July 2024, a little over a year ago. It was a collection that I called “strongly relatable” and these new acoustic versions of three of its standout tracks enhance that relatability.

“I’ve been blown away by the love this EP has received,” says Ally. “These songs mean so much to me, and I wanted to thank everyone who listened, shared, or supported Now in any way by sharing them in the way I love performing them most — just me and my guitar.”

The acoustic version of Now is out now, and you can listen to it below.