With echoes of 90s country, Rachel Whitcomb provides a relatable, heartworn sound on her recent album, Wildest Dreams.
As a singer-songwriter of country and Americana music, the Pittsburgh, PA artist leans into the emotional side of country music, which she is very fond of. Her primary intention for her music is to evoke emotions by sharing honest, personal experiences that are felt within many walks of life.
All 10 songs' melodies and lyrics intersect in simple but meaningful ways to tell their own heartfelt stories. "You'll Want Me" is a great example of this; the melodies evoke thoughts of reminiscing for something more, and reels the listener into her story. The lyrics continue to shine through the instrumental as the push and pull of longing for someone, but it may cause harm to another's feelings and the environment in which one is accustomed to already.
There are many personal anecdotes, and "Live in the Lonely" is one of them. As Whitcomb mentioned in a local radio interview, you need to sit with the loneliness, cause everyone feels lonely from time to time. The music itself is to comfort others through this emotion, with a music video that helps visualize it. Throughout the video, she is lingering in her home, completely alone.
A dazzling display of Whitcomb's vocal range is on the track "Promise", mainly within the chorus of the song. The harmonies from the background vocals of Dylan Bradley and John Wilcox complement her voice and highlight the message of keeping simple promises, and perhaps wishing for a relationship.
If a song can be reminiscent of country-rock from the early 2000s, "Control" is that song. Per the title, Whitcomb's vocals have the power to control the melody. This is further put on display through her live performance in her home base of Pittsburgh.
Outside of her artistry, Whitcomb works on the continuation of music education, serving as Associate Dean and Program Director at Duquesne University. As shown through her music, she believes that music of all types should be included in schools so children have an outlet for expression. Her words and actions intertwine with her works, allowing honesty in all avenues.
Whether in the classroom, the studio, or on stage, Whitcomb's work reflects a core commitment to authenticity and connection through the arts.
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