EP Review: Rachel Costanzo – Rachel Costanzo EP
2 min read
This girl has had a journey that wouldn’t look out of place in a feel good Disney movie. From calling a radio station on a whim when their computer system crashed and couldn’t play programmed music, she convinced them to play her track Blindside over the phone and madness ensued. The next day she was invited down for an interview at the station and had a proper play of her song over the airwaves – this is the stuff of any wannabe pop star’s dreams.
Her brand spanking new self-titled EP is the product of Rachel’s amazing drive, coupled with her talent and a little bit of luck, and it would only be the jealous that would begrudge Rachel her chance to shine and prove she’s more than a viral musical story. Has she made the most of her fortuitous opportunity to be the next teen sensation?
At the tender age of 16, Rachel shows you don’t need age and experience when you’ve got nerves of steel and a passion for music. First track Blindside is a dance/pop hybrid that knocks the socks off a lot of the established acts out there. The usual build up and drop ensues as Rachel’s vocals hold more than their own against a piano riff that’s gradually taken over by electronic beats and sounds in the chorus. Its club pop for the masses, it’s harmless, it’s fun.
Next up is Starlight. Continuing the dance vibe, Rachel’s bubbly effervescence shines through and wills the listener to get moving with its energy and exuberance. It might not be the most clever and inventive lyrically, but this is more than made up for with the powerful vocals and catchy beats, intertwining to a pleasant effect.
Heartbeat Two Feet perfectly shows the singer for what she is – a strong young woman taking on the world on her own: ‘I’ve come this far working hard every day’ sings Rachel, reminding us of the effort she’s put in to get where she is.
The last two tracks change it up a bit, with Invisible being more of a ballad, giving a nice change in style and featuring some of the best vocals on the EP, whereas Avalanche is lavished with 80s influences, also taking tips from Emile Sande with its solemn but controlled vocal presence.
Rachel’s come from nothing to everything here. A diamond in the rough has been unearthed and it’s an astounding achievement for a first attempt. A full album will be the next step, with what is likely to be a heavy tour schedule, but with the passion and sheer will power the singer has already shown, there’s nothing in this world that can stop this girl.
