ĢƵ

close

Music review: Rachel Platten- ‘Wildfire’

By Clint Rhodes for The 2 min read
article image -

Fresh off her dazzling performance on ABCĢƵ “New YearĢƵ Rockin’ Eve,” Rachel Platten releases her third full-length album to welcome in 2016 in a favorable fashion.

The 12-song effort spotlights a blossoming Platten starting to hit her songwriting stride with lyrics that pack encouraging messages filled with determination, perseverance and self-awareness that wander a full range of emotions orchestrated directly from the heart, making “Wildfire” an appealing treasury of infectious arrangements that are smart and endearing morsels of pure pop pleasure.

The multi-talented, 34-year-old singer-songwriter displays the pop sophistication of Katy Perry, Sara Bareilles’ knack for penning catchy lyrics and the lively vocal style of Ingrid Michaelson.

“Stand by You,” the albumĢƵ second single, instantly delivers an upbeat tone with its melodious hooks and enthusiastic sing-along chorus, before yielding to the pulsating dance groove and sexy, spirited vocal offering displayed on “Hey Hey Hallelujah” featuring Andy Grammer.

The soaring pop anthem “Fight Song” highlights the tracklist with its inspirational message about believing in yourself and pursuing your passion no matter what obstacles may stand in your path. PlattenĢƵ signature song was first released in early 2015 and gained coveted television exposure as a rousing sales jingle used in commercials for the Ford Edge.

Well-crafted arrangements such as “Better Place,” “Angels in Chelsea” and “You Don’t Know My Heart,” give prominence to the depth and genuineness of PlattenĢƵ heartfelt messages disguised as delicious samples of pop delight.

“Superman” is a deeply personal love song of encouragement written for PlattenĢƵ husband that gracefully brings the album to a tender close after leaving a lasting impression.

Platten will make a local appearance on March 15 at Mr. Smalls Theatre in Millvale.

CUSTOMER LOGIN

If you have an account and are registered for online access, sign in with your email address and password below.

NEW CUSTOMERS/UNREGISTERED ACCOUNTS

Never been a subscriber and want to subscribe, click the Subscribe button below.

Starting at $4.79/week.