Justine Magnusson’s “One Less Person” is a six-track EP built around personal stories, gentle melodies, and honest songwriting. Released in 2022, the collection introduces listeners to an artist who puts real emotion into her music and lets each song speak for itself. From soft acoustic guitar to catchy melodies, the EP moves between reflective moments and lighter sounds, making for a lovely listen from beginning to end. The opening track, “Solo”, starts things off with soft acoustic guitar and Justine’s warm vocals. The arrangement is simple and intimate, giving her voice plenty of space and making the song easy to connect with. “Solstice” follows with gentle melodies and thoughtful instrumentation. It has a relaxed quality that makes it a good fit for a quiet evening or a moment to slow down and enjoy some music. The title track, “One Less Person”, is one of the most emotional moments on the EP. Written about the passing of Justine’s grandmother, the song deals with grief, love, and the memories we hold onto after losing someone close to us. Its personal meaning gives the track a special place in the collection. Justine approaches the subject with honesty, making it easy for listeners to connect the song to their own experiences of loss and remembrance.
“Eric’s Song” and “Maryann” continue the EP with more personal storytelling, adding variety while keeping its intimate character. Each song adds to the overall listening experience, letting Justine show different sides of her songwriting. Then comes “Sweet Loretta”, which closes the EP on a brighter note. Its catchy melody lifts the mood after the more emotional moments, making it a satisfying way to end the release. The people behind the music also deserve a mention. Marc Orrell handled production and mixing, while Hans DeKline handled mastering. Lauren Wright’s fiddle playing adds another musical touch to the collection, helping give the songs extra character while keeping the focus on Justine’s vocals and songwriting. Personally, I really like the honesty behind this EP, especially the way the title track deals with losing someone you love. “Sweet Loretta” is another highlight for me, thanks to its catchy sound and the cheerful feeling it brings to the closing moments.
If you enjoy discovering independent singer-songwriters, give Justine Magnusson a listen. “One Less Person” is a lovely introduction to her music, with six tracks that mix heartfelt stories, acoustic sounds, and memorable melodies. Follow Justine on social media and music platforms to keep up with her work and any new releases. Take some time to listen to the full EP, find the songs that speak to you most, and add your favorites to your playlist. Whether you connect with the personal story behind the title track, enjoy the gentle sound of “Solo” or find yourself returning to “Sweet Loretta”, there is plenty here to appreciate. Share the EP with friends who enjoy sincere songwriting, and add these songs to your regular listening rotation.
