Review:

on 2012-10-07 MusicJournalist Said:

Rachel Platten Lives In The Moment With Be Here


 Be Here is the debut album from Rachel Platten, passionate but never preachy Platten mixes whimsical and poetic pop tunes with a fun and light-heartedness that appeals to all ages and has great commercial appeal. Platten is no flash in the pan; this New York City songwriter has paid her dues perfecting her with precision, practice and non-stop touring. Be Here was born over the course of an epic journey across the Atlantic from London to Los Angeles, Stockholm and then back to New York A Berklee music graduate, Plattens songwriting and attitude displays wisdom wise beyond her years. Her eclectic mix of piano driven pop songs includes elements of blues, jazz and hip-hop. She has been compared to the likes of Tori Amos, Alanis Morrisette and Ani DeFranco. Platten may have their depth and soulful ness but its a lot less angst and more spirit lifting and heart felt album that you just want to sing along to.

Plattens songs seem to take the perspective and power of being positive choosing to highlight her appreciation for love and light in the world and her lyrics display that with passionate intensity. Some of the albums most memorable and inspiring track on the album includes Overwhelmed,  Take These Things Away, and All I Seem To Do. Writing songs that universally relatable for those at any age, Plattens pop driven sounds evokes the emotions of introspection and inspiration, while experiencing the hard truths and realities that many face today, one such example of that is Overwhelmed.

 Overwhelmed is a more mature version of the pop-rock sound many listeners are used to hearing its sweeter and has an innocence to it. The song blends keyboards, bass and piano for an inspiring tune about overcoming obstacles and seeing the light. On the other end of the spectrum, is Take These Things Away, which exhibits Plattens saucier side. Plattens raspy voice has a bit of grit behind it and mixes a blend of genres including R&B and jazz.

Take These Things Away the songs mellow and subdued demeanor are highlighted by Plattens raspy vocals which pair nicely with the bass and drums making it the perfect composition for the last romantic comedy. Finally, All I Seem To Do seems to build on that momentum including what seems to be Plattens signature sound.

 All I Seem To Do is a fun, spunky, spicy and sexy has a soft sultry feel with a Caribbean, Latin feel thats up-tempo and fun and combines the sounds of the islands with the tambourine, and triangle.

With Be Here Rachel Platten combines catchy chords into inspiring anthems that engage the listener into really listening to the songs rather than just hearing them, she has music with a message and Platten executes that message with carefully constructed pop arrangements and lots of heart. Its a feel good album that anyone would love.

Rating: 8/10