Dallas, Texas-based soul starling Alexandra Raé has an effortless knack for transposing the past into her modern compositions. Her spell-binding riffs on classic ’60s Motown make for enchanting songs that comb the revivalist infrastructures established by Amy Winehouse and Duffy a decade ago.
Raé’s debut EP, “Power to Me,” is her first artistic statement since she turned 21. Having newly flown the nest, she has a lot to say about adulthood and all the frustrating, confusing, and draining obstacles involved in growing up. While her original songwriting shines, Alexandra’s gorgeous vocal chops and ear for arrangement make it clear that this is an artist to watch.
The EP’s closer, a Beach Boys cover of “Don’t Worry Baby,” is where Raé shines with sophisticated harmonies that offset the shoegazey instrumental aspects, creating a truly original take on a modern classic.
