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First Light is the debut EP by American singer-songwriter Gemma Norris, released independently on August 19, 2011.

The EP served as an introduction to Gemma's heartfelt songwriting and captivating vocals, showcasing her talent as a young artist.

Background
Born and raised in Duluth, Minnesota, Gemma Norris discovered her passion for music at an early age. Forming a band with some of her closest friends during her sophomore year of high school, Gemma embarked on a musical journey that would lead to the creation of First Light. After winning a radio competition, Gemma and her band were granted studio time to record their first project.

Music and lyrics
The First Light EP offers a snapshot of youth and showcases Gemma Norris's introspective songwriting. The six-track collection encompasses a range of genres, including indie rock, indie folk, soft rock, and indie pop. Gemma's heartfelt lyrics and soulful vocals are accompanied by melodic guitar riffs, rhythmic bass lines, and dynamic drumming, contributing to a rich and emotive sonic landscape.


 * 1) Courtyard: This upbeat indie-rock song captures the essence of a high school crush. Gemma's lyrics take listeners on a nostalgic journey through the excitement and innocence of teenage infatuation.
 * 2) First Light: A romantic, upbeat indie-folk track, "First Light" narrates the story of an unauthorized sleepover and the bittersweet moments before dawn when Gemma's lover must sneak away. The song conveys the tender emotions and stolen moments of young love.
 * 3) Shadow: "Shadow" is a mid-tempo soft rock/indie folk song that explores the feeling of being overshadowed by one's peers. Gemma reflects on the struggle to find her own identity amidst the expectations and comparisons she faces.
 * 4) Curse: This slow-burning track delves into the topic of the curse of religion. Gemma shares her personal journey of breaking free from the constraints imposed by her religious upbringing. The song conveys her search for personal freedom and individuality.
 * 5) Lady of the Village: "Lady of the Village" is a mid-tempo indie folk song that tells a heart-wrenching story. Gemma narrates the life of a widowed woman with no family, expressing her fear of ending up in a similar situation. The song carries a sense of empathy and reflection on the fragility of life.
 * 6) Praying: Closing the EP on a playful note, "Praying" is an upbeat, tongue-in-cheek indie rock song. Gemma sings about feeling safe and not venturing too far because of her mother's prayers. It combines youthful rebellion with a sense of familial connection.

Art direction
The art direction for Gemma Norris's debut EP, "First Light," showcased a nostalgic and evocative visual aesthetic that complemented the themes and essence of the music. The EP's cover art, in particular, captured a memorable moment in Gemma's musical journey.

The cover art features a sepia-toned photograph of Gemma Norris and her bandmates standing in front of their high school, Denfield High School in Duluth. The choice of sepia tones adds a timeless quality to the image, reminiscent of old photographs that evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth.

The composition of the photograph centers around Gemma and her bandmates, creating a focal point that highlights the unity and camaraderie within the group. The school building in the background serves as a symbolic backdrop, representing the place where their musical journey began and hinting at the significance of their shared experiences.

The use of the school as the setting for the cover art reflects the EP's connection to Gemma's high school years and the formative experiences that inspired the songs on "First Light." It adds a personal touch and allows listeners to connect with the authenticity of Gemma's music and the genuine emotions embedded in her lyrics.

The sepia tone, combined with the image's composition and subject matter, evokes a sense of nostalgia, youthful spirit, and the beginning of a musical adventure. It visually captures the essence of Gemma and her band's journey, offering a glimpse into the time and place that shaped their creative expressions.

The art direction of the "First Light" EP cover art effectively conveys the themes of youth, growth, and shared experiences that resonate throughout Gemma's music. It serves as a visual representation of the heartfelt songs contained within the album and invites listeners to embark on a musical journey alongside Gemma and her band.