Unsigned Artists

REVIEWS:

Kinda like The Big Bang Theory, there was this explosion on the pop scene a number of years back that gave birth to a new universe, one dubbed "The Serpentine Confluence of White Chick Pop/Soul Singers."

Oh, this universe has always been around in one way or another, but the most recent incarnation gave way to a population where you could count the good ones on one hand, the really good ones on the other hand--and still have fingers to spare. The trend ultimately died down after Joss Stone set the bar at an almost unachievable height, but there is a new singer on the horizon, and one worth checking out.

Valerie Nicole's debut EP Soul Searching is a little more pop and a little less soul than say, Joss Stone, for example, but as an initial effort, she has all the earmarks to make a name for herself. Starting with strong vocals that are equal parts sweet and soulful, and combining heartfelt lyrics and better than average instrumentation, Soul Searching is a terrific first effort and casual listeners would be wise to snag a copy.

Though this release is a peek into heartache (witness the songs "Can't Imagine", "Fed Up" and "You Never Really Loved Me"), Soul Searching still feels more like a warm hello hug from a high school crush, as the songs have an upbeat feel rather than melancholy misery. This is a good thing. Yeah, it may have happened before, but it sure is sweet and welcome every time.

--Michael Canter sonicjive.com