Reviewed by Neil Fix

This EP is the first release from the young North Carolina-based band, and it's an accomplished project. The band started off as a duo playing acoustic sets in coffee houses, where they honed their songwriting skills. It also seemed to be a natural outlet for them, even now with a full band line up they could easily fit on an acoustic stage somewhere. My first impression on listening to this CD was that it was beautiful, and I still think that. Starting from a simple base, they have built on that, structuring their songs with multiple layers. Sometimes, the songs are multi-layered and lush, and in other places, a somewhat stark simplicity shines through. Bella Vita's influences include Coldplay and The Swell Season (a duo whose musical background is both folk and classical). They are described as a ministry band, and this comes across clearly with songs about grace and trusting God.

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