Review of Alicia Rae EP ‘Sweet Melody’

Alicia Rae released her debut EP, Sweet Melody, in March. Her potential in singing/songwriting is apparent on this relatable pop record. 

Alicia Rae is a Washington D.C. native who took to playing guitar in 2009. Soon after, she began to write her own songs. Sweet Melody marks Rae’s first official EP. With production by Chris Rafetteo, the album was released in March. Songs on this record span lighthearted and pared-down, to conflicted and highly orchestrated.

Sweet Melody begins with the title track. Aptly named, it is a light and sweet song. Though it is not overwhelmingly original, heads will bob to the rhythm. “Sweet Melody” is somewhat reminiscent of Lily Allen’s happier work. With plucky guitars and rhythmic vocals, it is a pleasant opening track.

Track two on Sweet Melody is “Pretty Boy.” Closer to a radio-ready pop tune, Rae’s vocals are more impassioned in this song. With larger-scale orchestration as the backdrop, “Pretty Boy” conveys desire – spotlighting longing more than love.

Taking the change in mood one step further, Rae sheds light on a shadowy side of love and loss in “Cupid.” Despite the title, this is not a happy song describing love at first sight. Here, Rae adds an engaging edge to her voice. Deeper tones and murkier subject matter mark this song. The accompanying video further expands upon unpleasant sides to dating – delving into grey areas. “Cupid” will set Alicia Rae apart from the crowd. Though it remains catchy, there is nothing shiny about this song.

A growing artist

Stepping back into the light, “Hide Away” is next on Sweet Melody. With rather conversational lyrics, it is a nice tune. However, it may struggle to get noticed in the vast sea of available music. “Fire in Your Eyes (featuring Michael Pearsall)” closes the debut EP by Alicia Rae. The introduction produces an interesting dynamic with somber melodies and love-filled lyrics. With breathy sensuality and almost folk-duet arrangement, “Fire in Your Eyes” feels honest.

Alicia Rae turned in a solid first effort with Sweet Melody. As the artist comes into her own – moving further away from emulation – she will likely produce increasingly interesting and engrossing music.